We are aware how important role family allotment gardens play in cities. These are places where one can relax, be close to nature, but above all they are the green lungs of cities. FAGs have a direct impact on urban ecosystems - ventilation or reducing rainwater run-off. Therefore, we must take special care of these areas,

says the Minister of Development Funds and Regional Policy Grzegorz Puda.

The project "Development of green infrastructure through support of allotment gardens" will receive PLN 50 million from the European Funds. The amount will be distributed by the Agency for Restructuring and Modernization of Agriculture (ARMA) amongst allotment associations.

In many Polish cities, one can observe an insufficient share of green areas in their total area. This is not good, neither for the environment nor for human health. Therefore, I am glad that together with the Ministry of Development Funds and Regional Policy and the Ministry of Climate and Environment we can support the activities of the Polish Family Allotment Gardens. This distinguished institution not only enriches green spaces in cities and towns. Working in allotments is a hobby and a source of satisfaction and joy for many millions of Poles, including those who are retired,

said Henryk Kowalczyk, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development.

ARMA plans an open call for applications, divided into monthly rounds, until funds are exhausted.

Family allotment gardens play an important role in local community integration and cultural life. They are places for family gatherings, leisure and recreation. Their importance has increased especially during the isolation and restrictions associated with the pandemic. Plots of land have become a popular place to spend not only free time, but entire vacations and holidays,

added the MDFRP head Grzegorz Puda.

Nearly 5 thousand family allotment gardens represent not only 125 years of tradition, but also nearly 44 thousand hectares of biologically active area, an invaluable reservoir of flora and fauna, and a means of active, intergenerational recreation for about 4 million Poles. I am pleased that with the agreement signed today, more than a dozen urban centers will be able to create areas teeming with plant biodiversity in their areas,

stressed Adam Guibourgé-Czetwertyński, Deputy Minister of Climate and Environment.

It is worth noting that this project complements the actions we have been taking recently with a view to the sustainable, green development of Polish cities - from ecological transportation, through concern for the so-called green-blue infrastructure, to a number of educational activities,

the deputy head added.

The project will mainly contribute to increasing the area and improving the condition of greenery, reducing the urban heat island effect, preserving and developing urban biodiversity, and retaining rainwater.

The agreement will enable associations operating in the form of family allotment gardens, to benefit from the European funds for activities that contribute to increasing biodiversity, creating and restoring green spaces and mitigating the negative effects of climate change. Garden associations operating family allotment gardens will be invited to apply for grants. The amount of aid will range from PLN 10 thousand to PLN 100 thousand,

says Halina Szymańska, President of the Agency for Restructuring and Modernization of Agriculture.

In Poland, we have a tradition of more than 100 years of establishing and using allotment gardens. But it is worth remembering that this concept also functions strongly in the European culture. We are all the more pleased that we fuel the initiative with funds from the OPI&E, with the European funds. By subsidizing the initiative, we are also meeting the strong growth in demand for leasing, use of allotment gardens across Poland, which has resounded especially in the pandemic reality and which continues,

adds Przemysław Ligenza, President of the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management.

Allotment holders will be able to receive funding for measures to increase green space, including the establishment of green screens to reduce noise and air pollution. Support will also be provided for measures to improve the condition of greenery and its maintenance conditions, including the use of rainwater and fostering pollinating insects, as well as other animals important to plants and the environment.

European funds will also allow for the implementation of small-scale water and sewage infrastructure, energy infrastructure, and infrastructure of a pro-health and pro-social nature.

All project activities are part of achieving the strategic goal of protecting the urban environment and adapting to climate change.