GEOTOUR & IRSE 2012.pdf - Fakulta BERG - TUKE

GEOTOUR & IRSE 2012
substantial benefits, on condition that such projects are accompanied by promotion activities
of the local and regional authorities.
b/environment and landscape perspective
Attractiveness of a given region, which comprises post-mining structures arises from a
number of factors to start from environmental, educational, sport, social to economic. The
region may attract prospective investors, who want to restore usability of the existing
structures and which may be of significance to development of a commune or even a number
of communes. Evaluating attractiveness of mining excavations and their specific character
should be taken into consideration when choosing an optimal direction of adaptation works. It
does not mean that structures, which appear attractive due to its geological properties should
be subject to protection, which will ensure preservation of their geological landscape values.
Taking into account close surrounding of post-mining structures, comprehensive actions
which allow scientific, research, educational and tourist approach, should be brought to
attention. Such approach may be assumed in case of multi-level excavations of complex cubic
capacity and variable geological structure.
Existing greenery observed on excavations is also of big significance when decisions
concerning adaptation projects are being made. Sometimes, as the case may be, the areas
comprise very rare and vanishing or protected species, which are listed or attached to EU
directives, applicable under Natura 2000 Network. Such approach means linking e.g.
technical routes with nature routes, which present various flora and fauna species.
There is no doubt that projects aiming to revitalise post-industrial structures, including postmining
facilities, initiate significant changes as far as natural environment and site
development is concerned. The said changes include, in particular:
Reasonable use of resources and protection of the natural environment,
Improved site development of degraded areas,
Eliminating risks for people and animals,
Site Development achieved through implementation of new investment projects.
One of the main outcomes of such projects is restoration and protection of balance in the
natural environment within the area subject to protection works, which has been affected due
to years of mining and processing activity, as well as later removal of household waste into
excavations. Such outcome is achieved due to execution of the planned revitalization projects,
which restore balance between the man, components of nature and inanimate components of
the surrounding.
c/ cultural and social perspective
Growing branch of industrial tourism may facilitate the process, whereby local communities
identify with a cultural heritage of their region. It reflects local traditions and customs, which
can be easily distinguished and identified. Contrary to some opinions which assume collapse
of a concept of private homeland [German concept of “Heimat”], the idea of local community
experiences a visible come back. During uncertain and turbulent times, individuals need to
underline cultural unity, stability and safety, which may be offered by local community and
areas occupied by its residents. This conclusion is reflected through the so called concept of
“discovering tradition”. Examples of such forms of restoring elements of local life include
fraternities of knights, history of which dates back to mid 70s of 20 th century, when the first
knights tournaments were organised in a castle located in Golub-Dobrzyń. Currently hundreds
of fraternities operating within the so called Knights Movement bring closed history of the
middle ages, stage historical events, conducts educational projects. A similar situation is
observed in relation to revitalization of post-mining facilities, which together with restoration
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