Preface

As the countries of Central and Eastern Europe continue their transition to a market economy and prepare for European Union accession, the market for environmental technologies and services will certainly experience strong growth. In fact, it is estimated that environmental investments totalling USD 100 billion to 150 billion will be needed in the ten accession countries over the coming years in order to comply with EU environmental requirements. Cost-effective technologies and strong environmental management skills will be needed in this enormous undertaking.

This survey describes current market conditions and signals possible future directions. It is the most comprehensive report yet prepared, taking into account the viewpoints of technology providers, buyers, consultants, researchers, and policymakers. By understanding the environmental situation in each country, the relative demand for technologies, the main players, and the purchasing behavior of buyers, the reader will be better prepared to identify opportunities in the emerging market. A similar survey for the three Baltic States will be published in 1998.

The Regional Environmental Center for Central and Eastern Europe (REC) supports this market development by matching technology needs with solutions and building the capacity of environmental professionals in the region to introduce eco-efficient practices in industry. In addition, the REC's Business Research Service is well-positioned to prepare specialized market studies of specific sectors, upon request.

The five country surveys presented here were conducted using a standardized methodology to ensure comparability of information. Emil Dzuray and Pawel Kazmierczyk assisted in developing the survey questions, format and concept, while the following in-country consultants conducted the country surveys: ARDA (Czech Republic), Oko-Eco Bt., Mr. Gergely Toth and Ms. Valeria Lekics (Hungary), ERM Polska (Poland), PB Consulting (Slovakia), and the Josef Stefan Institute (Slovenia).

Pawel Kazmierczyk developed the report concept, compiled and edited the five country surveys, and wrote the report. The following REC staff provided valuable content review and editorial support: Miroslav Chodak, Jiri Dusik, Emil Dzuray and Jernej Stritih. Reuben Stern and Sylvia Magyar designed the report layout.

Special thanks go to Jerome Simpson for his invaluable assistance with updating and verifying the information presented in the survey, as well as copy editing the entire report.

I would like to thank all the contributors to this report.

Winston H. Bowman
Deputy Director, Programs

REC * PUBLICATIONS * ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY MARKET * PREFACE