Just transition of post mining areas – technical, economic, environmental and social aspects

The article is a review of papers, presentations, expert opinions concerning a just transition of post-mining areas in the light of technical, economic, ecological and social aspects, which were the subject-matter of the International Scientific-and-Technical Conference, organized by the KOMAG Institute of Mining Technology in Gliwice, Poland and the IHP Hydraulics and Pneumatics Research Institute in Bucarest, Romania. The Conference participants concentrated their discussions both on the social effects of transition, on the economic aspects of activities concerning a collaboration of circummining companies as well as on technical and technological challenges in the mines already closed down or in those which are currently subject to the closing-down processes. Some possibilities of a reorientation of the mining plants towards generating and storage of green energy were presented. It should be borne in mind that a transition of the European Economy in the direction of more green and climate friendly is one of the most important objectives determined by the European Union. In particular, it is a big challenge for mining regions such as Silesia in Poland. The transition process includes a liquidation of underground workings and of the surface infrastructure and a series of indispensable activities oriented onto a restoration of the natural environment and a protection of mining plants areas against hazards which may occur after a termination of their operation. The article is ended with some information concerning a role research institutes in the just transition of post-mining areas and a new strategy of KOMAG as GREEN INSTITUTE.