Abstract

Nineteenth century mining areas have increasingly gained recognition as a particular form of industrial heritage among planners. Advocators point out the importance of mining remains as a testimony of industrial revolution, as well as its signifi cance for local identity; and have promoted mining tourism reuse. On the other hand, various environmental problems should be considered previously. Using the former coal settlement of Lota in Chile, the article identifi es the main elements of mining heritage; and the associated natural and manmade risk. The results verify the profound linkages between heritage value and environmental risk in former mining areas; thus stressing the need of an integrated approach to: the remediation of environmental risk, and the preservation of mining landscape; as a requirement for sustainable reuse.