Coal2Canopy research basis and case study Coal2Canopy was inspired by a 30-year research project studying successful tree planting techniques, species, and combinations of species into compacted, low-nutrient coal tip surfaces in Varteg, Pontypool, South Wales. This research project was underpinned by a vision to support ecological resilience, community regeneration and ecosystems services, whilst also mitigating…
New coal mining in England Banned! Yesterday the UK Government released its updated National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) in which it has banned new coal mining in England. This is welcomed by Coal Action Network and our supporters who have worked to oppose new coal mines for many years. This updated policy prevents local authorities…
Where our coal comes from UK industries still hooked on coal Despite 2024 being a momentous year for UK coal mining and use, the fight’s not over. The UK steel and cement sectors (and to a lesser extent, bricks) are the largest users of coal following the closing down of the UK’s last coal-fired power…
Glan Lash opencast extension refused…again Carmarthenshire County Council has rejected Bryn Bach Coal Ltd’s second attempt to expand and extend the currently dormant Glan Lash opencast coal mine, amidst hundreds of hand-written and online objections from residents in the county (see below for a small selection). The decision reflects a clear, strategic commitment to climate…
Unambitious response from Government to consultation on industrial decarbonisation CAN was one of 109 respondents to the UK Government’s consultation on ‘Growing the market for low carbon industrial products: policy framework’. This consultation was to contribute to the UK Government’s announced plans to work with industry to establish green public procurement guidance, product classifications (formerly…
The Planning Playbook A guide to challenging extractive applications near you Foreword This guide draws on 18 years of organisational knowledge fighting opencast coal mine applications. This was always shoulder-to-shoulder with local communities trying to preserve their local environment, way of life, and often motivated by the looming threat of global climate chaos. Coal Action…
Mine water heat potential in Wrexham Coal Action Network is calling for the UK’s vast mine‑water heat potential to be matched by greater ambition to harness this local, low‑carbon resource for communities. We are mapping areas of high geothermal potential and identifying anchor customers with consistent heat demand. West Wrexham heat opportunity Wrexham is the…
Support for coal mining ban in the King’s Speech Earlier this month, the King’s Speech marked a major milestone for our campaign for the introduction of legislation which will ban new coal mines. The Government formally announced the Energy Independence Bill, and with it a commitment to ‘Implement the manifesto commitment to end new coal…
World leading standards for operational and legacy industrial emissions During their party conference, Plaid Cymru announced plans for their first hundred days of Government, should they win the Welsh election. Having now formed the Government, we hope to work with them and other Members of the Senedd to achieve some of those priorities. This is the…
Opencast vs deep coal mines: what’s the difference? UK transition from deep to opencast mining Deep (AKA underground) coal mines have a long history in the UK dating back some 400 years. On the other hand, opencast coal mines only became common between 1940 and 60, becoming the dominant mining method in the UK as…