Relationship Between Environmental Changes and Waste Management Policies on the Formation of the Quality of Life in Poland. A Regional Approach

As indicated by Roy et al. (2023), green transformation is the process of transforming the economy, society, and resource management to make them more sustainable and environmentally friendly in the face of environmental crises such as biodiversity loss, deforestation, and land degradation by identifying the weaknesses in societies that lead to these problems, including excessive waste production. Green transformation combines environmental, waste management, and socio-economic policies to influence the quality of life of local communities. Promoting sustainability improves resilience to environmental and economic challenges. According to Zhu et al. (2024), it is a key mechanism in shaping the relationship between the environment, waste management policies, and the quality of life of county population.

Climate change underlines the urgent need for a transformation towards a sustainable economy. The green economy is a key strategy for mitigating environmental degradation and promoting economic growth and social equity. It promotes the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature by promoting renewable energy sources, resource efficiency, and a circular economy. As underlined by Hu and Gu (2024), a key element is the efficient use of mineral resources, with a focus on reducing CO₂, emissions and minimizing waste throughout the life cycle. Qiao et al. (2023) point out that the sustainable development goals promote resource conservation in the face of these growing concerns and encourage global economies to implement policies for sustainable resource use. The green economy stimulates innovation and the creation of new sectors and reduces dependence on fossil fuels, thereby minimizing CO₂ emissions. Amin et al. (2025) underline that by integrating these processes, a balance between economic development and environmental protection can be achieved, laying the foundation for long-term sustainability.

Waste management policy is a key tool for reducing the negative impacts of environmental change. It focuses on reducing waste, improving recycling, and reducing pollution. Promoting sustainable consumption and waste separation allows for the recovery of raw materials and reduces the burden on the environment. As Bénard and Malet-Damour (2022) point out, the proper implementation of these measures will improve the population’s quality of life, reduce environmental inequalities, and promote sustainable development.

Reduced human concentration and dispersed development can facilitate the creation of resilient ecosystems that more easily adapt to climate change, such as extreme weather events or temperature fluctuations. Because of the lower intensity of urbanization, natural resources such as soil, water, and space in rural areas may be better protected from degradation. In addition, in smaller, less urbanized areas, there is less risk of infrastructure overload as in larger cities, giving rural areas an advantage in adapting to new environmental challenges.

The aim of the study is to assess the impact of environmental change and waste management policies on the quality of life of county population in Poland. Using synthetic measure methods, descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, the study seeks to identify the key indicators of quality of life that are most sensitive to environmental change and waste management policy in the context of spatial differentiation among counties in Poland. The research needed to answer the following questions:

How have environmental changes affected the quality of life of county population from 2010 to 2020, taking into account spatial aspects?

The novelty of the study presented here is primarily the integrated analytical approach, combining the analysis of quality of life, waste management, and the state of the environment at the level of counties in Poland in 2010, 2018, 2019, and 2020. This captures the dynamic political and environmental changes and their impact on residents’ quality of life. In contrast to the existing literature, which often focuses on single aspects or their fragmented connections, this study systematically considers the spatial dimension of disparities between counties in these three key areas. It represents a novel research direction by identifying the impact of the green transition on possibly mitigating or exacerbating these disparities, offering a comprehensive view of the dynamic changes taking place during the period under study, which goes beyond the previous, often singular or partial, coverage of these issues.

Environmental degradation, including water pollution and biodiversity loss, exacerbates social inequalities, leading to a deteriorating quality of life, social destabilization, and increased migration. Green transformation increases the resilience of societies to climate change and improves the quality of life through cleaner air, better resource management, and access to recycling. Analyses of the impact of environmental changes and waste management policies on the quality of life of the inhabitants of counties in Poland have been carried out separately, focusing on individual aspects of the environment and waste management, neglecting their interrelationship with quality of life. This approach prevented a full understanding of the complex interactions between the three areas and limited the formulation of comprehensive conclusions on the development of local communities.

According to Kusterka-Jefmańska (2015), quality of life is a complex and multidimensional concept that constitutes the overarching goal of sustainable development that should be pursued by development policies at national, regional, and local levels. It refers to the degree to which the material and nonmaterial needs of individuals and social groups are met. Quality of life can be analyzed in the context of health, the economy, employment, infrastructure development, crime rates, and the state of the environment, both from an individual and a societal perspective. Improving the quality of life is an important goal of sustainable development. According to Štreimikienė (2015), the housing dimension, which includes the quality of housing and the housing environment, is one of the most important issues in assessing the quality of life.

Environmental changes are long-term processes related to human activities and natural phenomena that affect the state of the environment. They reduce the quality of life by affecting health, social stability, living conditions, and access to basic resources. Reducing these changes requires adaptation and sustainable development. The greening of economic activity, as presented by Luo et al. (2024), involves the transformation of industries and businesses to implement sustainable practices, minimize CO₂ emissions, and switch to renewable energy sources.

In Poland, problems are observed in the field of municipal waste management, especially in relation to the planning and implementation of appropriate solutions. According to Brzozowska et al. (2024), in order to increase the level of recycling and improve the overall state of the environment, it is crucial to create specialized organizational units responsible for the management and supervision of waste-related processes. This should be in line with the ideas of sustainable development, a circular economy, and the assumptions of the European Green Deal. As Famielec and Famielec (2017) point out, municipal waste management is not always central to the analysis of urban quality of life, but it is an integral part of it, since waste is generated in the human environment and different environmental services are required at each stage of its management. Waste management policy can be a comprehensive environmental management tool that plays a key role in protecting the environment, public health, and citizens’ quality of life. Landfilling and incineration have been common forms of waste management for decades, with serious consequences for the local environment, such as groundwater contamination, agricultural soil degradation, and air pollution. Malek et al. (2023) indicate that in an effort to move away from this linear model, the European Union (EU) is promoting practices such as prevention, reuse, recycling, and recovery by adopting a waste hierarchy. In addition, Górka (2014) points out that coordinated action in this area, as well as the adoption of a circular economy, can contribute to sustainable development, the conservation of natural resources, and the improvement of the quality of life for current and future generations.

Baraldi et al. (2024) point out that inequalities in waste management between regions affect the quality of life, with regions with well-organized recycling systems having better environmental conditions. Areas with inadequate waste management are more vulnerable to pollution and health problems. Efficient waste management, including recycling, is key to reducing pollution, recovering raw materials, and reducing energy consumption, thus laying the foundations for sustainable development.

As pointed out by Granceri Bradaschia et al. (2024), the spatial aspects of environmental change and quality of life refer to differences in access to environmental resources (the problem of exclusion from consumption) and the degree of exposure to the effects of environmental change according to geographical location. These differences have a significant impact on social inequalities and the quality of life of the population. Environmental and social inequalities are linked to unequal access to resources such as clean water, air, and green spaces, as well as differences in quality of life and access to services such as education and health care. These inequalities are linked to poverty, poorer infrastructure, and a lack of effective environmental management programs. Furthermore, Broniewicz (2017) points out that, as a result, disadvantaged areas find it more difficult to adapt to environmental change, exacerbating existing social inequalities.

Environmental sustainability means the responsible and prudent use of natural resources to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs and a balance between environmental protection, social equity, and economic viability (Naseer et al., 2025). Within this paradigm, the environmental aspect is of particular importance. Currently, unsustainable production and consumption patterns are at the root of three environmental problems: biodiversity loss, global warming, and environmental degradation (Fatima et al., 2025).

Current research does not fully address the interdependencies between environmental change, waste management policies, quality of life, and green transformation, especially in the context of spatial differences. Filling these gaps would allow for a better understanding of the interactions between environmental, social, and political factors, as well as the development of more effective sustainable development strategies tailored to the specificities of local communities. Environmental changes, such as air pollution, land degradation, and climate change, negatively affect the quality of life, especially in highly urbanized areas. Effective waste management policies with a focus on recycling and sustainability can mitigate these impacts. In regions with weaker infrastructure and less progress in greening, social and environmental inequalities are more pronounced, worsening the situation for residents. The authors hypothesize that waste management, including the introduction of effective segregation and recycling systems, significantly improves the quality of life of residents in urban areas by reducing pollution and increasing environmental awareness. Spatial disparities in waste management and accessibility to natural resources (environment) contribute to inequalities in the quality of life between different counties in Poland, which hinders the sustainable development of these regions.

The research process carried out in the study consisted of the following stages.

From 2010 to 2020, quality of life remained stable, although the distribution of the data shows considerable variability, with lower scores dominating. The synthetic measure of quality of life ranges from 0.29 to 0.50 in 2010 and 0.32 to 0.51 in 2020, the measure of ecology and the environment from 0.36 to 0.60 and 0.32 to 0.64, and waste management from 0.43 to 0.61 and 0.39 to 0.55 (Table 2). An increase in the value of the synthetic measure indicates an improvement in the situation of the surveyed unit compared to all districts, while a decrease indicates a deterioration in its situation. In the area of ecology and environmental protection, there is an increase in the effectiveness of pro-environmental activities, especially in 2020, which is reflected in a positive change in the skewness and an increasing number of better results. Waste management also shows stability, with less volatility, suggesting the introduction of effective and durable management systems. The 2010–2020 period is characterized by progress in environmental protection and waste management, while quality of life remains stable, albeit with some volatility. Analysis of the Gini coefficient shows that inequalities between counties are the lowest for waste management, which is also the most stable. Quality of life shows relatively low and stable inequalities. The greatest increase in inequality is in the area of ecology and the environment.

Poland’s counties differ in terms of quality of life, environmental status, and waste management, with urban areas offering a higher quality of life but with environmental problems, while rural areas struggle with ecosystem degradation. There has been a moderate deterioration in the state of the environment and stability in waste management between 2010 and 2020, but further action is needed to promote sustainable development and reduce regional disparities (Map 1). This requires coordinated efforts in environmental education, environmental investments, and improved living conditions, especially in rural and highly urbanized regions.

Map 1.

Spatial distribution of synthetic measure of quality of life, ecology and the environment, waste management of counties in Poland in 2010, 2018, 2019, and 2020

Source: authors’ own study based on Statistics Poland data (GUS, n.d.).

Figure 1 shows the correlations between pairs of variables (synthetic measures: quality of life, waste management) from 2010 to 2020. Linear regression analysis showed a very weak and statistically insignificant correlation between overall measures of waste management and quality of life in the counties under study between 2010 and 2020. The weak correlation may be due to the multidimensionality of quality of life, the indirect or delayed effects of waste management, and the aggregate level of analysis. The size of the scatter in the data indicates the degree of variation, and the shape of the pouch indicates differences in the correlations. Trends in changes in correlations indicate improvements in waste management, but also persistent inequalities in access to infrastructure and in the efficiency of local government.

Figure 1.

Relation of synthetic measure of quality of life, waste management of counties in Poland in 2010, 2018, 2019, and 2020

Source: authors’ own study based on Statistics Poland data (GUS, n.d.).

The correlation coefficient between quality of life and environmental conditions between 2010 and 2020 shows a weak (Figure 2) but positive relationship, suggesting that environmental improvements can affect quality of life, although the strength of the relationship is limited. The Figure shows groups of counties with similar scores, which may reflect similarities in environmental policies or socioeconomic conditions. Outlying counties on the periphery of the chart show significant differences, which may be due to infrastructure deficiencies or differences in local policies. The dynamics of change in the correlation indicate a gradual strengthening of this relationship, which may be the result of more effective environmental policies and sustainability efforts.

Figure 2.

Relation of synthetic measure of quality of life, ecology and environment of counties in Poland in 2010, 2018, 2019, and 2020

Source: authors’ own study based on Statistics Poland data (GUS, n.d.).

Environmental changes such as air pollution, water quality degradation, and extreme weather events have negatively affected the quality of life of county population, exacerbated health problems, and destabilized ecosystems. Despite efforts by local governments, such as segregation and recycling schemes, infrastructure problems and limited financial resources hinder effective waste management. An integrated approach is needed, with authorities, communities, and institutions working together to achieve sustainable results in improving quality of life and sustainable waste management.

According to the analysis of counties in eastern Poland carried out by Dziekański (2018), the region has significant differences in the level of infrastructure and environmental quality, which is crucial for their ability to attract investment and stimulate growth. He notes that the better condition of cities with county rights, such as Lublin and Kielce, during the period studied suggests that the administrative form may be conducive to better development and growth. Existing disparities, resulting from, among other things, the financial situation of local authorities and their involvement, point to the need for in-depth studies of strategies to reduce these disparities in the region.

According to Woźniak (2016), the vital importance of a high-quality environment underpins the social, economic, and cultural well-being of society. Ecosystems, as the planet’s natural capital, provide essential resources and services such as energy, food, and water, as well as shaping climate and landscape, with direct implications for public health. In the context of local development research, Woźniak (2016) emphasizes that it is therefore crucial to consider environmental quality as an integral element to ensure sustainable and balanced development.

According to a study at the level of Polish counties by Popławski et al. (2025), no strong correlations between waste management and the state of the environment have been found so far, although there is a slight upward trend. Spatial analysis has shown a concentration of counties with similar environmental status, but not in waste management. Given the potentially negative environmental impacts of inadequate waste management, it is crucial to improve it towards a closed loop.

The analysis revealed significant differences in the objective level of quality of life between the Polish voivodeships, with these assessments being strongly related to the aspects selected for the study. The results based on objective data contrast with studies using subjective indicators, in which the Małopolskie, Pomorskie, and Opolskie voivodships were found to have the highest overall quality of life and the Świętokrzyskie, Lubuskie, and Warmińsko-Mazurskie voivodships the lowest. At the same time, Bąk and Szczecińska (2015) emphasize that the choice of diagnostic features is of fundamental importance for the reliability and relevance of the results of taxonomic studies. The highest living standards were recorded in cities with county rights, such as Rzeszów, Lublin, and Olsztyn. On the other hand, in his study of spatial autocorrelation, Malinowski (2017) did not show a global tendency for the clustering of counties with similar living standards but observed local correlations, which indicates the need for further analyses on smaller spatial units.

Waste management policies have improved environmental quality, but environmental changes such as increased pollution and extreme climate events have created additional challenges. Spatial and social inequalities have affected performance. The interdependency analysis shows that waste management policies play a key role in mitigating the effects of environmental change. Waste management should aim at sustainable development, including waste prevention, recovery of raw materials, and safe disposal of waste to minimize its negative impact on the environment. It is necessary to change the approach to its management in order to protect space and the environment (Grodkiewicz & Michniewska, 2017).

Analysis of data from Poland, Slovakia, and Ukraine showed a significant link between everyday environmental practices such as responsible consumption, reuse, and material recovery and the zero waste concept. Respondents identified these activities with zero waste principles. The results provide a basis for discussion at the European and global level on waste management regulations and education programs (Bogusz et al., 2021).

The disparities identified between countries highlight the need for coordinated efforts to create a level playing field in waste management and environmental protection. This approach is key to reducing social and environmental inequalities and improving the quality of life of residents. The analysis provides an understanding of the differences between counties, which makes it possible to assess the effectiveness of policies and identify areas for improvement. Future studies would do well to include additional variables such as economic structure and social awareness, taking into account the difficulties associated with data availability and variable conditions.

Spatial differences in the relationship between waste management policies, environmental changes, and the quality of life of the population are reflected in the different region development levels. Between 2010 and 2020, Poland has made progress in terms of quality of life, environmental protection, and waste management. However, significant regional disparities in both the quality of life and the state of the environment are still visible, pointing to the need for sustainable development. Further efforts should therefore focus on investment in environmental infrastructure and the reduction of regional disparities, especially in rural and highly urbanized regions.

In ecology and the environment, despite progress, there was greater variation, suggesting uneven effectiveness of environmental measures. Waste management showed stability with the slow introduction of better systems, but the availability of infrastructure remained uneven. The increase in the concentration measure indicates growing inequalities in ecology and waste management, which calls for further sustainability measures. The relative stability in waste management, reflected in the lower variability in performance, suggests the introduction of efficient and sustainable systems that have contributed to improved ecology and environmental protection.

Systematic surveys of quality of life, waste management, and the state of the environment are key to monitoring the activities of public administrations. Regular data analysis makes it possible to assess the effectiveness of policies and identify strengths and areas for improvement. Synthetic measures provide an important indicator of progress in the areas of quality of life and sustainable waste management, enabling future trends to be predicted and strategic interventions to be planned.

Research problems include the difficulty of accounting for the complexity and variability of spatial aspects of the impact of the green transition (including the environment) on quality of life and of analyzing the impact of waste management policies in different regions. There is also the challenge of identifying the impact of external factors, such as social and economic changes, on the relationships studied. Another important issue is the development of analytical methods that accurately capture longterm changes in quality of life and environmental management.

Further research could focus on external and more complex processes that may influence the relationships studied and on improving analytical methods to better capture long-term trends in quality of life and environmental management.

Existing interdependencies between environmental change, waste management policies, and quality of life, taking into account the green transition and the spatial dimension, indicate the relevance of the role of the green transition in shaping the quality of life of county population between 2010 and 2020.