The cultural complexities of phasing out coal in Europe: the role of tradition in the energy transition

The phase-out of coal across the European Union is essential to combating climate change. However, for coal-dependent regions, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe, coal is not just a source of energy – it is part of their cultural fabric.

Historical significance of coal mining in Europe 

Coal mining has played a transformative role in shaping Europe’s industrial and economic history. During the Industrial Revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries, coal became the primary driver of industrialisation, powering factories, railways, and urban expansion. In countries like Romania, Germany, and Poland, coal mining was the backbone of economic growth, providing jobs to millions. 

Silesia in Poland, the Ruhr region in Germany, and Jiu Valley in Romania emerged as industrial powerhouses thanks to their rich coal reserves. In these regions, coal was not just an energy resource; it became the foundation of local economies and fostered strong, robust working-class communities. The danger associated with their occupation formed profound and lasting comradeship among coal miners. Coal thus did not just become a symbol of economic prosperity, but also of labour solidarity within mining communities, forming a key part of regional identities. 

Cultural and regional traditions tied to coal mining

In coal-rich regions, the mining industry became intertwined with local traditions and cultural identity.

For example, in Poland’s Silesia, Barbórka, celebrated on December 4th, is a vital festival that honours Saint Barbara, the patron saint of miners. This event blends religious and secular traditions, with parades, prayers, and community gatherings celebrating the mining profession and the region’s deep connection to coal.

Similarly, in Germany's Ruhr region, coal mining is commemorated through festivals, public monuments, and museums, such as the Zeche Zollverein in Essen, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Though the coal mines have largely closed, the Ruhr’s industrial past remains alive through such landmarks, representing the industrial development of the entire region and honouring the resilience and all the hard work that made it possible.

In Romania's Jiu Valley, the historic Lupeni strike of 1929 came to represent the miners’ collective struggle for better and more fair working conditions. The strike’s legacy spans from features in songs, movies and statues, and until 1989, Miners’ Days was also celebrated. 

The impact of decline in coal mining

The closure of coal mines across Europe has brought significant economic and social challenges to mining communities. Unemployment rates surged as mines closed, leading to population decline and the erosion of long-standing traditions. In many cases, younger generations have moved away in search of opportunities, leaving behind aging populations and weakening local economies.

While environmental awareness has grown, and the push for renewable energy has gained momentum, coal regions have struggled to adapt. Despite initiatives like the EU’s Just Transition Fund and the Coal Regions in Transition Initiative (CRiT), which aim to support affected areas, the economic restructuring has been slow and difficult. Local traditions and cultural heritage tied to coal mining are at risk of fading as these communities grapple with the changes.

Rebuilding collective identity: the way forward

Moving forward, it is crucial to find ways to re-imagine identities tied to coal extraction to ultimately create an energy transition that encompasses a cultural shift too. 

Proposal 1: Local energy communities
Local energy cooperatives and renewable energy projects could help restore a sense of belonging to regions transitioning away from coal. By involving locals in the management and ownership of new energy initiatives, these projects can provide new economic opportunities and foster community spirit, much like coal mining once did.

Proposal 2: Repurposing coal festivals
Modern-day festivals are increasingly shifting to environmentally conscious modus operandi – of course, with coal festivals, the switch inevitably also includes a thematic one. Evolving existing coal traditions and festivals by adding a new focus on the energy transition could help keep traditions alive while introducing a focus on sustainability. This approach could highlight both the importance of the energy transition and the value of honouring the hard work and culture of coal mining communities.

Recommended links

1. Coal mining created community and culture. Can clean energy do the same?
2. Romania’s Jiu Valley: Is There Life After Coal? 
3. Transformation and Nostalgia in Europe’s Coal Mines
4. In Poland, coal is no longer king — but its mark remains
5. Europe’s coal industries: not dead yet

About the authors

• Agnieszka Szostok specialises in energy and climate protection planning for the public sector, focusing on renewable energy systems and promoting community awareness and engagement.
• Blanka Tarsoly currently works as a climate change and sustainability consultant. In this role, she assists the corporate sector in reaching its ESG goals and meeting its sustainability obligations.
• Devesh Mishra is an architect and urban designer and is dedicated to integrating sustainable energy practices into urban development. 

Our 2024 EUSEW Young Energy Ambassador (YEA) cohort engages in outreach activities related to the European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW), contributing to intergenerational dialogues, policy recommendations, and discussions with EU leaders to shape the future of clean energy.