A policy of development of post-mining land on the example of Zielona Góra

Abstract

The article is an introduction to the issue of shaping post-mining areas and the former coal mine sites of Zielona Góra, (lubuskie voivodeship). One of the characteristic geological processes, shaping the current surface of the mentioned area were glaciotectonic deformations a set of processes related to icecaps movements, that have brought the deposits of lignite near the surface. This allowed to their partial exploration in the past. In the 19th century, around Zielona Góra, several lignite mines were in use. Some of them have already been completely forgotten and no documents or information as a proof of their previous existence remained. Currently, the most important raw material in the natural surroundings of the city are natural aggregates such as sands and gravels and different kinds of ceramic raw materials (loam, clay). The city of Zielona Góra, seeking new investment areas, develops further areas, including those that have been former mine sites for at least 70 years. The areas have not undergone reclamation, in accordance with the current procedure under the law. Although the reclamation of post-mining areas, both technical and biological, is a responsibility of a mining plant and should be consistent with the law, there have not been institutions covered by the above obligation for over 70 years. The historical value of the city’s post-mining areas, as well as the problems associated with the protection of nature and landscape, resulting inter alia from the act of 16 April 2004 on the protection of nature (Off. J. of 2015 item 1651, as amended), and the act of 24 April 2015 on amending certain acts due to the strengthening of the tools of landscape protection (Off. J. of 2015 items 774, 1688) [13], indicate a need for action, aimed at maintaining documentation and the identity of the place. All sorts of sports and leisure or park use can be provided for such areas [9]. It is necessary, however to determine the directions of development, within the documents shaping urban spatial policy, that would indicate the purpose and way of development of the mentioned areas.