Development of post-mining regions – projects, perspectives and international collaboration

At a times of energy transition and the switch to low-carbon energy sources, Poland is facing socio-economic and environmental challenges that will result from the liquidation out of coal mines. France has faced the same problems since the 1960s, when the Nord-Pas-de-Calais mining basin ceased to operate. Today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it shows the pursuit to create model workers’ towns in the 19th century, and illustrates an important period in Europe’s industrial history. However, in spite of a considerable financial commitment on the part of the state and a well-thought-out organisational preparation when it comes to reclamation and revitalisation, the region is still today confronted with the negative effects of intensive change – particularly in the economic and social spheres.

The aim of the conference is to present the Polish and French experiences (completed projects, organisational approach, funding opportunities) and to exchange good and bad practices in the field of revitalisation of post-mining areas. As part of the conference, it is planned to include a session on the application of New European Bauhaus principles (planned cross-cluster in Horizon Europe) in the design of post-mining land development. The expected outcome will be, among other things, a set of recommendations for decision-makers in Poland aimed at mitigating the negative effects of transformation, based on the French experience.