280 / 2024-03-14 20:05:38

CliSustainable transformation and renewal in the post-industrial era: A case study of the Lausitz mining area in East Germany

Mining Area Transformation,Landscape Renewal,Lausitz Mining District

8、资源能源安全与应急管理 > 9、城市转型与空间治理

The European Union's climate protection and energy transition policies have underscored the importance of sustainable, clean energy, thereby accelerating the phase-out of the coal industry. Since the 19th century, Germany's Lausitz region has been profoundly influenced by lignite mining. It has faced numerous challenges such as land degradation leading to habitat loss, increased unemployment resulting in population decline, and a weakened economic transition due to the coal phase-out. These challenges have precipitated profound socio-economic, ecological, and cultural changes. Adhering to a philosophy of "collective progress," the region is actively implementing measures to facilitate a sustainable transition to green energy in the post-industrial era, aiming to become the "Renewable Energy Hub of Europe." This paper methodically outlines the development history and structural crises of the East German Lusatia region through the analysis and synthesis of pertinent literature, supplemented by field research. It focuses on the interplay between the natural economy and socio-cultural dynamics during the transformation process. The study examines specific measures such as the establishment of cross-border cooperation, improvement of regional spatial structures, rejuvenation of landscape ecology, strengthening of the new energy sector, enhancement of scientific research and educational development, and the introduction of strategic management and legal frameworks. These initiatives have positioned the region as a leading example of structural transformation in Europe, providing economically viable and socially equitable insights and strategies for the transformation of mining cities and old industrial areas in China.