iFOREST unveils new insights into the repurposing of coal mine land

Ranchi, Jharkhand: The International Forum for Environment, Sustainability & Technology (iFOREST) unveiled new insights into the repurposing of coal mine land and the strategic use of coal cess to support a just transition in the coal-dependent states and districts of India, including Jharkhand.

In a stakeholder meeting in Jharkhand today, the think tank released a set of new studies and analyses, highlighting the opportunities of just energy transition to support green growth and green jobs in the state aligning with India’s target of building a net zero economy by 2070.
The event was attended by various key stakeholders who are crucial to planning and implementing a sustainable just transition in Jharkhand. Participants included the Department of Mines, the Department of Environment and Climate Change, the Chairperson of the Sustainable Just Transition Taskforce, and mining companies, among others.

During the event, iFOREST released important studies on experiences of mine reclamation and repurposing, and the opportunities of repurposing coal mining land through inclusive planning for local economic growth and livelihood generation. The studies also highlight the need to develop a Just Transition Plan as part of mine closure planning to support a green transition of the coal districts. A detailed process of developing the Just Transition Plan based on a Social Impact Assessment study has also been provided.

The think tank also highlighted how coal cess can be utilized through necessary regulatory reforms to support just transition measures in these states and districts in the coming years.