Thesis +0 Introduction // Abstract

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+Summary

Through natural resource extraction, West Virginia has fueled the nation’s energy demands since the early 20th century. As renewable energy production becomes more prominent, former surface mines and coal communities search for new methods of economic revitalization.

+Abstract

The natural beauty and the environment of the Appalachian mountains have been decimated by contemporary methods of coal extraction known as surface mining or mountaintop removal. In order to preserve the natural environment moving forward, architectural integration must raise awareness surrounding the issue by revealing the surface mining process to the public.

At the heart of the rich coal-filled Appalachian Mountains lies Madison, West Virginia. Madison is nestled at the basin of the Little Coal River valley, where coal was discovered in 1742. Over the years, the picturesque landscape and the rich history has been diminished by the socioeconomic disparity of the coal industry. Madison, like many other coal towns throughout Appalachia, will serve as the primary case study for this analysis.

The number of coal mining operations decrease each year as clean fossil fuels and renewable energy alternatives are developed. Today in the United States, only 30% of our energy is derived from coal. As this percentage continues to decrease, abandoned surface mines are becoming more prominent throughout southern West Virginia. Surface mines are the most common form of coal extraction; however, this controversial method has generated social, economic, political, and environmental problems.

Due to the devastating environmental and economic impact of an abandoned surface mine, the Department of Environmental Protection provides incentives for future economic development. The beautiful Appalachian landscape surrounding the reclaimed surface mines promote architectural interventions that support eco-tourism, community engagement, coal heritage, and renewable energy production. Each design component will address an issue surrounding the mountaintop removal process, while challenging the public’s perception of renewable energy alternatives.