GIS provides comprehensive information about the city, presented in the form of maps, aerial photographs, numerical data and texts available in the Szczecin city hall. It includes land surveys as well as administrative, demographic, economic and environmental information about the city.
GIS is more than an ordinary database. The system has been extremely useful not only to city clerks, architects, investors, politicians, but also to civil defence officers and environmental engineers. It serves the city as a monitoring and warning system and there is no exaggeration in saying that it practically saved the city during the flood earlier this year. It turned out to be an effective tool for the city management in this critical period, providing first-hand information about flood- endangered areas within the city limits. It also provided a simulation of what would happen if the water level in the river rose further.
On other occasions, when the local government compares different ways to dispose of rubbish or waste, the GIS can also help them in this area. It is not easy to estimate total costs for incinerating, dumping and recycling rubbish for the municipality, taking environmental costs into account.
GIS is further used to monitor the level of noise and pollution in the downtown area, as well as to help in locating, e.g., mosquitoes. In the case of hazardous waste transportation through the city centre, the system can simulate potential dangers and provide information as to where to seek medical assistance, etc.
All UBC cities interested in the Szczecin GIS are welcome to Szczecin.
For more information, please contact Ms Ewa Kurjata, European Liaisons Office.
