Landscape, EIA and decision-making. A case study of the Vistula Spit Canal, Poland

Abstract

Although landscapes are often considered public goods, they frequently receive inadequate attention in Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), particularly in Poland. This neglect often leads to visible degradation during investment processes. This article examines the case of the Vistula Spit Canal, currently the largest engineering project under construction in Poland. We analysed whether the conclusions drawn in the EIA report, particularly those concerning landscape changes, influenced the decision to proceed with the construction. Although the EIA report described potential landscape changes as both significant and irreversible, the authorities nonetheless approved the project, citing moderate environmental impacts in other areas. This case underscores the tendency to overlook landscape considerations when greenlighting large-scale investments.