On Wednesday 9 July, the European Commission published a report to “draw lessons” from its START technical assistance scheme for coal regions in transition, which ended six years after its launch in 2019.
By carrying out 18 missions covering 14 coal regions – but also regions with lignite deposits, peat bogs and oil shales (so-called “coal” regions) – in 10 EU countries, the initiative has provided advice and guidance for developing regional and local transition strategies, defining transition projects, and sharing knowledge.
In particular, the report stresses that transition planning and support for other carbon-intensive sectors must be based on “a combination of transparency and solidarity with affected individuals, groups and communities”.
Furthermore, it indicates that there is still work to be done and that technical assistance for supporting policy and strategy should place greater emphasis on long-term vision and systemic planning.
In a press release, the Commission stated that it would continue to support coal-mining regions in transition. A call for tenders for the START secretariat for the next four years has recently been launched. Requests for technical assistance are also possible under the EU-funded TARGET programme.
To see the report: https://aeur.eu/f/hrz (Original version in French by Pauline Denys)