Historical Background of REGI The scars of deindustrialisation in Europe’s landscape: Bringing former industrial sites to a new life. With the European Commission’s New Industrial Policy Strategy aiming to empower European industries, how can the social, economic and environmental challenges of deindustrialisation be addressed throughout Europe? What measures should the EU and local authorities take in order to secure the sustainable development of former industrial sites? The first industrial revolution transformed Europe. The technological advances brought by new energy (coal) and manufacturing technology provided many jobs in coal mining, steel, textiles or machinery. It had a profound impact economically and socially, with the creation of new social classes, urban development, and the creation of industrial hubs. These industries, often large-scale, played a crucial role in the development of a region, both economic and social. Economically, they provided growth for the region, with jobs and income, and due to their scale, they would sometimes be the main or sole employer of a region. These industries were also fundamental to the social fabric, beyond providing families the means to live, they also provided community through labour unions, community centers, housing, and other forms of support. These in-
dustries were a strong part of a region’s identity, bringing dignity and pride through what they produced and their specific skills. However, in many cases these industries have changed, diminished or closed, for a variety of factors. Some technological changes require more machines and fewer workers, decreasing the employment possibilities, or make past production processes obsolete. International trade can decrease an industry’s competitiveness, with cheaper imported goods and cheaper labour abroad. The decrease in these industries’ activity, or their closure, is deindustrialization.