Obsolete Mining Buildings and the Circular Economy on the Example of a Coal Mine from Poland—Adaptation or Demolition and Building Anew?

Abstract

During the energy transition period and the increased supply of developed land, an analysis was conducted on the economic viability of transforming post-mining buildings. This study sought to answer the following questions: Does the circular economy create new conditions for adapting these specific industrial facilities? Should mining buildings be adapted or should they be demolished and built anew? The objectives of the article were to perform a comparative analysis (financial, environmental, and social) of these alternatives and to develop a decision-making model for managing obsolete mining facilities using circular economy principles. Decision-making regarding mining buildings should occur as part of revitalising post-mining areas. Consequently, the method used was research through design followed by comparative analyses: financial, environmental, and social. As a result, the study demonstrated the potential for adapting buildings on a defunct mining site, mainly compressor and fan station. The financial, environmental, and social profitability of investing in the adaptive reuse of historic buildings was established. The entire process was encapsulated in a universal decision-making model. The analytical results presented in the article indicate that mining buildings represent a significant resource in a circular economy and their adaptation should be prioritised.