EN 
PL 
DE Ecological disaster in the Jizera Mountains
AttractionThe ecological disaster that occurred in the Jizera Mountains in the 1980s is an example of one of the most dramatic events of its kind in Europe. It was caused mainly by intensive industrial emissions from both Poland and neighbouring Czechoslovakia and East Germany.
Causes of the Disaster
The main cause of the catastrophe was emissions of sulphur and other pollutants that came from numerous industrial plants in the region, including power stations and copper smelters. These pollutants, carried by the wind over long distances, caused acid rain, which had a disastrous effect on the environment of the Jizera Mountains.
Ecological effects
The result of these pollutants was the mass death of forest stands, especially spruce trees. The forests were also not helped by the harsh climatic conditions in the Jizera Mountains. The destruction of the stands led to soil erosion and changes in the local ecosystem. The affected areas quickly turned into a so-called "ecological desert" or "dead forests".
Corrective action
In response to this environmental catastrophe, a number of corrective measures have been taken. These began with reducing emissions by modernising industrial plants and introducing stricter environmental standards. At the same time, large-scale remediation work began, which included planting new trees and protecting the young stand of trees.
Long-term consequences
The environmental disaster in the Jizera Mountains made an important contribution to raising environmental awareness in the region and across Europe. It highlighted the importance of cross-border cooperation in environmental protection and the need to monitor and regulate industrial emissions. Although the process of restoring the ecosystems is a long one, the positive effects of the remediation measures are already visible.
