21st World Mining Congress
The XXI World Mining Congress will be held in Kraków, but some events are scheduled in other cities also having a long mining tradition, such as Katowice, Lublin, Bełchatów and Wieliczka. In the first three cities, the Congress participants shall have a chance to familiarise themselves with the problems of Polish mining industry and with the knowledge and experience of Polish miners by undertaking technical trips to the mines. On the other hand, Wieliczka shall come about as travel back in time on one hand and as a contribution to a discussion on the role the former mining sites and testimonials of former mining glory play in the culture of today's societies. Among the most important topics discussed during the Congress, there are the following:
- New techniques and technologies of mining underground deposits;
- Risks faced while pursuing mining activities;
- Educating mining personnel;
- Prevention and dangers in the mining industry;
- Work safety in the mining industry;
- Information technologies in the mining industry;
- Sustainable development, the mining industry - the natural environment;
- Coal - its role as energy carrier - the prospects of the coal mining industry;
- The issue of mines closing.
The Congress will include satellite sessions, held in Kraków. During those sessions, the following issues will be discussed:
- automation of the mining industry;
- risk management in the surface protection;
- mechanics of the rock mass and its influence on mining technologies and occupational safety;
- economics, management and design in the mining industry.
On the 50-th anniversary of the World Mining Congresses we have prepared numerous attractions for the participants. We would like to present the beauty of the Polish culture and Polish mining traditions, which will be brought to you by the performance of the "Śląsk" Song and Dance Ensemble, the mining orchestra parade held in the magnificent surroundings of the Kraków Main Square and the traditional "Jump over Skin" event.
We believe that by participating in the events accompanying the Congress you will demonstrate the solidarity and friendship of miners from around the globe. Those bonds have been formed and build up for centuries and are strengthened by joint efforts to combat the dangers thrown our way by nature, protecting its reserves. We shall continue this difficult struggle, not forgetting however the future generations, for which we shall leave some of those nature's treasures.
