ESTERCUEL VERDE 2050 is a visionary project that reimagines the potential of an abandoned coal mine crater as a symbol of sustainable urban planning and ecological restoration. Located in the in the picturesque town of Estercuel in Spain, this project envisions the transformation of the crater into a thriving ecosystem, an innovative hub for self-sustaining collective housing, and a unique tourist destination. This comprehensive urban regeneration initiative aligns with the principles of the New European Bauhaus, focusing on sustainability, inclusivity, and aesthetics.
Introduction:
The 20th century saw rapid industrialization and urbanization across Europe, resulting in the exploitation of natural resources, such as coal mines, to fuel economic growth. However, the environmental consequences of these practices left behind numerous scars on the landscape, including abandoned coal mine craters. The need to address these ecological and societal challenges has led to the birth of projects like ESTERCUEL VERDE 2050, which aims to breathe new life into these disused areas.
The proposal exemplifies the principles of sustainable urban planning and ecological restoration. This paper outlines the comprehensive plan for transforming the abandoned coal mine crater into a thriving, self-sustaining, and eco-friendly urban community, while also preserving and enhancing the surrounding natural environment.
Estercuel: A Historical Perspective:
Estercuel, a charming european town with a rich history, was once a center for coal mining during the industrial revolution. The coal mine, played a pivotal role in the town's growth and prosperity. However, as the demand for coal dwindled and the environmental impact became increasingly apparent, the mine was abandoned leaving behind a massive crater that marred the landscape.
The Crater: A Hidden Opportunity:
Rather than viewing the abandoned coal mine crater as a liability, ESTERCUEL VERDE 2050 sees it as an opportunity. The crater, with its unique topography and natural attributes, has the potential to become a sustainable, regenerative, and inclusive urban space.
The fundamental principle guiding the proposal is sustainability. The project aims to create a model for sustainable living that minimizes its environmental footprint while fostering a sense of community and harmony with nature, which emphasizes the integration of sustainability into every aspect of design and planning. One of the central components is the development of self-sustaining collective housing units within the crater. These eco-friendly housing structures will be designed to minimize energy consumption, incorporate renewable energy sources, and utilize sustainable building materials.
The design will prioritize green roofs, rainwater harvesting, and waste recycling systems, reducing the community's ecological footprint, and a strong emphasis on resilience to heat waves and its potential to serve as a climate refuge.
The inner surface of the coal mine crater will be dedicated to nature conservation and restoration. This area will serve as a sanctuary for native flora and fauna, contributing to regional biodiversity. An extensive network of walking and cycling trails will allow residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the crater while minimizing environmental impact, and it will feature carefully designed urban and tourist viewpoints strategically positioned around the crater.
Environmental Sustainability: The project's foremost objective is to rehabilitate an abandoned coal mine crater into a thriving ecosystem. Through ecological restoration, native reforestation, and sustainable landscaping, ESTERCUEL VERDE 2050 actively contributes to biodiversity and reduces carbon emissions. Green roofs, passive cooling, and sustainable building materials minimize energy consumption and environmental impact, promoting a sustainable built environment.
Economic Sustainability: The project recognizes that sustainability must also be economically viable. By incorporating eco-tourism, cultural attractions, and sustainable businesses within the community, the project generates revenue, creates job opportunities, and promotes economic resilience. Sustainable financing models ensure the long-term financial sustainability of the project.
Social Sustainability: The project embodies inclusivity and social cohesion. It welcomes a diverse community, prioritizing accessibility and affordability. Collective housing units, communal facilities, and community gardens foster a sense of belonging and cooperation. Heat resilience measures, community shelters, and early warning systems enhance the well-being and safety of residents, promoting social sustainability.
Climate Resilience: The project incorporates climate-resilient urban planning, green infrastructure, and passive cooling strategies. It aspires to become a designated climate refuge.
ESTERCUEL VERDE 2050 embodies the NEB's value of inclusion by actively involving a diverse range of individuals, organizations, and communities in its planning, design, and governance. By creating an inclusive and accessible environment, providing affordable housing, and promoting diversity, the project sets a high standard for equitable and inclusive urban regeneration.
Accessibility to Natural Spaces: Nature conservation efforts within the crater are designed to be inclusive. Accessible trails, viewing platforms, and interpretive materials ensure that individuals with mobility challenges can also enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Community Empowerment: The project empowers communities to take ownership of their living environment. Through co-management and participatory decision-making structures, residents, including minorities groups, have a voice in shaping the community's future.
Accessibility and Universal Design: The project prioritizes accessibility in its design and infrastructure. Buildings and public spaces are designed following universal design principles to accommodate people of all abilities. This ensures that individuals with disabilities can navigate the community easily and participate fully in its activities.
ESTERCUEL VERDE 2050 places a strong emphasis on aesthetics and the quality of the human experience, going beyond mere functionality to create a visually pleasing and emotionally enriching environment. This approach aligns seamlessly with the New European Bauhaus (NEB) value of aesthetics and quality of experience.
Integration of Nature and Design: The project seamlessly integrates the natural beauty of the crater into its design. Buildings and infrastructure harmonize with the surrounding landscape, blurring the lines between built and natural environments. This creates a unique and visually stunning atmosphere that fosters a profound connection with nature.
Human-Scale Urban Planning: The project adopts a human-scale approach to urban planning, where streetscapes are designed to prioritize pedestrians and cyclists. This promotes a sense of intimacy, making the experience of navigating the community more enjoyable and visually pleasing.
Seasonal Variation: The aesthetics of ESTERCUEL VERDE 2050 change with the seasons. Dynamic landscaping and seasonal plantings create ever-evolving vistas, ensuring that residents and visitors continuously experience the beauty of the natural environment throughout the year.