Durham University: The Carbon Past We Inherit, The Green Just Future We Build
Posted on 08 October 2025
Join us for a transformative exploration at the intersection of science, art, and community as we reimagine the Durham coalfield for a sustainable future.
The Durham coalfield once powered a nation. Today, it holds untapped potential in the form of geothermal energy from flooded mine workings and valuable minerals in mine-water. 2025 also marks four decades since the end of the 1984/85 miners' strike—a watershed moment that led to unprecedented deindustrialisation and community upheaval. We will acknowledge this difficult legacy while celebrating the resilience and pride that have sustained Durham's coalfield communities.
Over two days, we will bring together researchers, artists, community members, and industry leaders to harness our rich industrial heritage and forge innovative pathways toward a green, just future. We will showcase cutting-edge research, including up-to-the-minute knowledge on how underground assets can be repurposed to create clean energy solutions, making Durham a leader in the transition to a post-carbon economy. Together, we'll explore how the industrious character and collective spirit of our communities can drive regeneration and innovation.
Hosted at the newly-restored Redhills, the historic home of the Durham Miners Association, our conference takes place in a venue that embodies both our industrial heritage and our aspirations for renewal. Once the beating heart of the coalfield community, Redhills continues to be a place where futures are forged and where the voice of the people is heard.
Conference Highlights:
· Keynote addresses from Fiona Hill, Senior Fellow at The Brookings Institution and Chancellor of Durham University, Chris Stark CBE, Head of UK’s Mission for Clean Power, UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and Chris McDonald MP Labour Member of Parliament for Stockton North as well as leading experts in renewable energy, just transition, and cultural heritage
· Interactive workshops exploring geothermal energy innovations and creative responses to climate change
· Exhibitions showcasing artistic interpretations of Durham's industrial past and green future
· Networking opportunities with researchers, policymakers, community leaders, and industry innovators
· Collaborative sessions to develop actionable strategies for regional regeneration
· Ask the experts about climate and energy science
Registration for this event is essential for catering purposes. Please visit the Redhills booking site.
Please note that we are offering 30 free student places at the conference - if you'd like to attend please do email dei.admin@durham.ac.uk. We will confirm if your application has been successful 2 weeks before the conference.
View the programme: DEI Energy Day 2025 Programme.pdf
