“Dolores”: Symbol of Structural Change and Climate Action

Topics: Climate Strategies and Plans Coal Phase-out Energy Transition Energy Transition and Climate-Neutral Buildings Just Transition

Countries: Germany Poland

As part of the EUKI Just Transition Lab project, the bucket-wheel excavator "Dolores" was saved from being scrapped in 2023 in eastern Greater Poland (East Wielkopolska). It is now a publicly accessible tourist attraction. The excavator is considered a symbol preserving industrial heritage while promoting a coal-free future and the successful implementation of social structural change. This tourist attraction creates new jobs and promotes sustainable regional development. The idea was born during a study trip to the F60 Museum in Lusatia organised by the EUKI project. A local initiative and the Fundacja Dolores successfully implemented the "Dolores" idea in September 2023. In addition, strong networks of local actors were created to help shape the transition in a socially just manner – in keeping with the Just Transition approach.