ABSTRACT
Much of the framework for the environmental regulation of enterprises in contemporary Poland was developed under the communist regime between 1949 and 1985. Throughout Central and Eastern Europe the direct and indirect results of industrial processes have historically been the most important source of environmental damage. Many commentators have placed emphasis upon the effects of industrial restructuring induced by integration into the world market for solving the environmental problems of the region. The system revolved around a combination of charges for use of environmental resources within approved limits combined with penalties for activities outside such agreed limits. The environmental regulatory system continues to rely upon a structure of fees and fines for environmental use, covering air emissions, water discharges, and solid waste disposal. A strategic approach based upon the primacy of controlling pollution at source is emphasized and environmental protection enforcement procedures are to rest upon the 'polluter pays' principle and absolute liability for polluting activities.
