Mapping the Just Transition in Spain: Just Transition Institute and CIUDEN Foundation

The City of Energy Foundation, CIUDEN, and the Institute for a Just Transition, ITJ, are dedicated to fostering social, economic, and cultural development under the umbrella of Spain's Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge. Their primary mission is to advance a decarbonized, sustainable, and forward-looking energy model that acknowledges progress without discarding historical roots. A central pillar of their approach involves preserving the nation's mining heritage through institutions like the La Fabrica Deloo Energy Museum and the Latmika Cultural center, which serve as national examples of how industrial history can be leveraged to boost culture, the local economy, and tourism. Beyond cultural preservation, these organizations are deeply committed to creating tangible opportunities for people in regions affected by energy transitions. They generate employment by providing training in environmental restoration, gardening, and nursery work, while simultaneously reclaiming spoil heaps and promoting sustainable farming practices to open doors for new productive activities. This grassroots action is supported by a vital tripartite partnership involving the government, trade unions, and businesses, ensuring that workers are actively involved in facility closures and are equipped with the skills necessary for future jobs. Ultimately, the work of CIUDEN and ITJ represents a strategic transformation where the legacy of the past becomes the driving force of the future. By integrating memory preservation with active job creation and sustainable land management, they demonstrate a holistic model for a just transition. This approach ensures that the shift toward a green economy does not leave communities behind but instead empowers them to build resilient, inclusive societies that honor their industrial history while embracing the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.