The Vistula River as a component of green infrastructure

The paper presents the concept of green infrastructure, practical examples of its use and its potential role in planning and managing of the Vistula riverside areas. The first part of the article focuses on presenting a variety of approaches to the definition and use of green infrastructure, both in the United States of America, where originally the concept of green infrastructure was applied, and in the countries of the European Union. It also identifies the basic elements of green infrastructure and presents its various functions. In the second part of the article several examples of green infrastructure use are presented, especially in management of water supplies and river areas, including their restoration. These examples are evidence of the effectiveness of green infrastructure solutions that reduce the costs of using "grey infrastructure" (i.e. the technical infrastructure). Projects compatible with the green infrastructure idea help to maintain biodiversity and support multi-functional, sustainable development. The third part of the article describes possible role of green infrastructure in the development and management of Vistula riverside areas located in Warsaw. The implementation of green infrastructure idea would strengthen the sustainable development of the Polish capital. Warsaw part of Vistula with its riversides fulfill many important functions, like.: • supporting biodiversity of the city ecosystem, • reducing negative effects of the global climate change, • creating urban space and identity of the city inhabitants, • providing recreation place. Therefore, it is necessary to apply an integrated approach in planning and multilevel governance approach in the management of the Vistula river and its riversides located in Warsaw