Where do we go from here: Reimagining Post-Industrial Cities

As part of GDD 2026, participants from different countries came together online to explore the future of post-industrial cities through the experiences of Zabrze, Poland, and Ploiești, Romania. Although shaped by different industries, coal mining and oil, both cities face similar challenges: young people leaving, changing local identities and the need to build resilient, inclusive communities.

The event focused on the human side of transition, asking how cities can remain places where young people want to stay, return and build their future. Through a World Café format, participants exchanged ideas around four themes: the future of young people, identity beyond fossil fuels, community-led transition and cities for future generations.

Rather than searching for one ideal model, the conversation created space to share experiences, recognise common challenges and learn from different perspectives.