In a statement published on the presidential office's X account, Nawrocki said Poles should have the right to express their views directly on the consequences of the European Green Deal, which he argued had led to higher energy prices, reduced economic competitiveness and a decline in agricultural production.
The proposed referendum question asks voters whether they support "a climate policy that has led to rising living costs, energy prices and costs for businesses and farmers".
The ballot paper would likely list specific EU measures, including carbon pricing on fossil fuel heating and transport, a phase-out of new petrol and diesel car sales from 2035 and additional obligations placed on agriculture.
Nawrocki said he had committed to the move as part of an agreement signed with the Solidarity trade union during his presidential campaign.
The result would only be binding if more than half of eligible voters participate – a threshold that was not met at Poland's last nationwide referendum, held alongside the parliamentary elections in October 2023.
The main opposition party, Law and Justice (PiS), has voiced its support for the initiative.
Party spokesperson Rafał Bochenek expressed hope the move might prompt Prime Minister Donald Tusk's government to reconsider its stance on EU climate policy.
The proposal, however, faces a significant hurdle: the Senate must approve the request by an absolute majority, with at least half of senators present.
The governing coalition, which holds a majority in the upper house, is widely expected to block it.
Senate Deputy Speaker Magdalena Biejat has already said the request would end up "in the bin".
Critics have also challenged the wording of the referendum question, which assumes the EU's climate policy has harmed Polish citizens – leaving little room for a neutral answer.
Climate Minister Paulina Hennig-Kloska argued the referendum would not change the EU's policy, nor help Poland adapt to climate change.
She described the move as "pure politics" and accused the previous Law and Justice government of having shaped the very policies now being questioned.
(ał)
Source: PAP