Formal-legal-environmental aspects of using thermal waters on the example of the Chochołów PIG-1 borehole

Abstract

The aim of the study is to analyze the formal and legal steps related to the exploitation of thermal waters in terms of respect for the environment. The main part of the article is devoted to the presentation of the current legal acts regulating this issue and the description of the most important permits necessary for the implementation of the extraction of thermal waters as well as the exploration and identification of their resources. The information provided is supplemented by a discussion of the operating thermal borehole Chochołów PIG-1 in relation to the legal basis and environmental conditions of the extraction and use of thermal waters and, additionally, the discharge of used water constituting sewage into the environment. The article also refers to administrative and legal problems in the geothermal sector.