Transformations in the Post-lignite Era

Western Macedonia Region is facing the effects of a rapid delignitization due to the shutdown of lignite power plants, and the repercussions should be mitigated through strategic planning in order to create a new era of a "Node of Development".

The purpose of this project is to investigate whether the exploitation of a former nitrogen fertilizer industry can add value to the region and to the new production model it is called upon to follow. Western Macedonia has excellent development potential in terms of Special and Alternative Types of Tourism. In combination with the international examples and practices that were researched, a new program is proposed, which focuses on 4 categories: Business, leisure, education & culture. What do we recommend? A park, a development hub of the area, a new form of housing that is in osmosis with the urban fabric and industry. What is the concept? In one word: MINING. Due to the location of the plot next to a lignite mine, but also in combination with delignitization, types and methods of lignite extraction were researched, concluding at some principles which constitute mining: Layering as a section of the soil and Zoning as spatial separation through partitions or other elements. Through a new type of mining, that of knowledge, ideas, energy we compose our park with the design logic of drill, dig and explode. The park operates continuously throughout the year and appeals to all people. It has an open boundary that extends into the urban fabric and activities are not limited to the park. Wanting to leave this footprint of energy saving and sustainable development, we have based on a circular economy. Rainwater, Waste (organic and non-organic) is collected and reused. Photovoltaics, wind turbines, energy crops, and finally a green hydrogen train are installed to signal the energy character of the park.