Structural change on site: syntral and ACL at the Nochten open-cast mine

On July 3, 2026, participants of the syntral initiative, together with members of the Akademische Club Leichtbau an der TU Dresden e.V. (ACL), visited the active Nochten open-cast mine. A total of 13 participants from the syntral consortium and ACL took part in the guided tour.

The tour, accompanied by LEAG, started at the Boxberg operational facilities and continued through the active open-cast mining area in a company vehicle. The participants gained first-hand insights into the scale, technical processes, and infrastructural requirements of lignite mining, as well as the significant changes shaping the Lusatian landscape.

For syntral, the visit focused on structural change in the Lusatia region. The tour illustrated how closely industrial transformation, regional value creation, and the future use of land and infrastructure are interconnected. At the same time, the joint visit provided an opportunity for exchange between members of the syntral consortium and the ACL.

A joint meal in the canteen of the Boxberg operational facilities concluded the event and provided an opportunity to reflect on the impressions gained and further strengthen the connections between the participants.