Discussing Research, Environmental Challenges, and the Just Transition of the Šalek Valley with SAZU Representatives

Last week, the Faculty of Environmental Protection hosted representatives of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts (SAZU). The meeting focused on the faculty’s research and educational activities, current environmental challenges, and development issues in the Šalek Valley.

During the visit, we presented the work of the Faculty of Environmental Protection, including its research and development activities, study programmes, and role in addressing contemporary environmental issues. Particular attention was also devoted to the challenges of the just transition in the region, which is facing complex environmental, spatial, economic, and social changes due to the gradual phase-out of coal.

The professional discussion was followed by a field visit to the area around the Šalek Lakes. Participants learned about the characteristics of the transformed landscape, Lake Družmirje, and development projects related to the energy transition, including the planned floating solar power plant.

The visit concluded with a tour of the Slovenian Coal Mining Museum, which plays an important role in preserving the technical, economic, and social heritage of coal mining in Velenje and the wider Slovenian area.

The meeting provided an important opportunity to exchange knowledge, views, and experience among research, academic, and educational institutions, as well as to reflect on the future development of the Šalek Valley in the context of a sustainable and just transition.