Mongabay · Climate & nature

Poland's "WarWilding" initiative uses nature for border defense

Poland is exploring "WarWilding," using natural defenses instead of fortifications for its border, including the Białowieża Forest.

The "East Shield" project (700-km fortification) faced criticism for potential damage to Białowieża Forest. Scientists proposed "WarWilding" (rewilding for natural barriers) as the "Green East Shield."

Poland's Ministry of Defense adopted WarWilding, integrating ecological recovery into defense. Natural landscapes like wetlands are seen as impediments to enemy advances.

Critics question traditional defenses against missiles/drones, but the military sees value in ground defense. Poland allocated $120 million to rewet borderlands for security and climate resilience.

Białowieża Forest faces water loss from climate change and past drainage. Logging and a 2022 steel fence have stressed the ecosystem, impacting wildlife.

Current water retention projects in Białowieża involve filling ditches to restore water levels and habitats, offering a model for Green East Shield interventions.

Extensive roads in Białowieża fragment habitats and affect water. Local road construction is criticized for potentially undermining WarWilding efforts.

A new Białowieża management plan prioritizes natural processes. Concerns remain about implementing WarWilding effectively amid geopolitical uncertainty and conflicting development.

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