The just transition process in Stara Zagora, a significant coal-mining region in Bulgaria, has been one of Europe’s most challenging. The region’s economic dependence on coal, coupled with political instability, delayed the approval of the Territorial Just Transition Plans. The planned closure of mines stirred unrest and political tension as workers protested and politicians hesitated to make decisions. However, Stara Zagora’s journey demonstrates that fear and pessimism can be transformed through open, honest discussions about the region’s future.
Fear and Pessimism
At the start, the meetings with local people from various societal groups were marked by a bleak outlook, primarily driven by the ongoing closure of the mines. The predominant emotion was fear that this transition would lead to massive unemployment and economic collapse in the city. The participants predicted that the shutdown of industries would have a ripple effect, severely impacting peripheral businesses dependent on the mines, thus causing widespread economic struggle.
One participant expressed a common concern:
‘What will happen to the people when we are left without work? While cleaning the air and environment is important, we need to address what these workers will do once the mines close.’
Another participant, a young woman whose father works at the Maritsa 2 power plant, shared her anxieties:
‘These power plants generate electricity, but their methods need to change. My father will lose his job if they shut it down. We need an alternative solution to produce electricity that won’t leave people jobless. Many families rely solely on this work for their livelihood.’
However, the outlook began to shift as discussions continued and more information was shared, including best practices from other European regions. The communities started to understand the opportunities within a just transition and began to find reasons for optimism.
Building optimism and hope
By maintaining continuous contact with the communities through semi-structured interviews and regular multi-actor forums, there was a noticeable shift in perspective. People from vulnerable groups began to subdue their fears and recognize the region’s potential. Youth, women, and Roma community groups started to believe that Stara Zagora could attract significant investment. They pointed to the region’s skilled workforce, well-developed infrastructure, and abundant natural resources as strong assets.
One participant noted:
‘The region has thousands of options, but we must consider local conditions, mentality, and education. The energy production may shift to another form, but it should align with our strengths.’
With time, a mix of doubt and optimism emerged. Some remained sceptical about the changes, while others believed in the potential for positive outcomes. A common consensus was that transparency from both local and central governments is crucial. It was clear that only a multi-channel communication approach could effectively engage the community. This includes regular newsletters to keep people informed, door-to-door visits to ensure personal interaction, and community meetings that foster open dialogue. Social media and local media can help spread the message widely, while workshops and training sessions can equip people with the skills they need for the future. Such strategies not only disseminate information but also build trust, ensuring everyone, especially vulnerable groups, feels included in the process.
When managed openly and honestly, the transition process can build trust and give people a sense of control over their future, ultimately leading to better outcomes and an improved quality of life.
Participants frequently mentioned a lack of clear communication from authorities, leading to feelings of uncertainty about the future. Despite acknowledging the benefits of a healthier, eco-friendly lifestyle, many were reluctant to bear the social or economic costs associated with this transition.
Balancing reality and expectations
During recent meetings, participants expressed readiness to accept the necessary changes for a more sustainable lifestyle, albeit with reservations about the potential social and economic impacts. They recognized the importance of a greener lifestyle for themselves and future generations. Potential benefits were identified, such as reduced pollution and improved air and water quality.
One participant expressed a common concern:
‘Producing electricity is crucial, but if new technologies can do it at a lower cost while being green, then it’s worth pursuing. However, we need to ensure that these new methods will provide enough jobs.’
It became evident that effective communication and education are essential for a successful transition—not only in Stara Zagora but in any region. Clear strategies to educate the public on the benefits of sustainable living, combined with policies and incentives, can encourage individuals and businesses to adopt greener practices.
Conclusion: a path toward a greener future
The transition in Stara Zagora reveals a clear chronology: it began with fear, followed by doubt, and then a struggle for optimism as the region’s potential was recognised. This process eventually led to a collective desire for change and a commitment to a better, greener future.
While reducing pollution is a long-term priority, the group acknowledged the nuances in their perspectives. Although regular pollution is easy to understand, carbon emissions remain a more abstract concept, often lacking credibility in the eyes of many. The discussions highlighted a deep-seated distrust of politicians, with participants believing that profit often takes precedence over people.
The challenge ahead is clear: convincing people that local, national, and EU politicians will prioritise their well-being over profits. Only through sustained efforts in communication, transparency, and inclusion can Stara Zagora—and similar regions—successfully navigate the just transition process, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for all.