Assesses the coal industry, theoretical debates about coal, and government's role in a just transition and sustainability Made up of 4 chapters laying the conceptual framework and 14 chapters describing the local consequences of mining for a South African medium-sized town Analyses the current situation of the mining industry: the inequalities it creates, its role in environmental sustainability and health and the implication of mining practices for business and local government Discusses the possible consequences of mine closures and how a just energy transition can be ensured Asks why the mining industry, government and unions promote the open mining towns Coal and Energy in South Africa: Considering a Just Transition investigates the consequences of shifting social responsibilities, new inequalities and the sustainability concerns created by the likely energy transition in Africa to end the fossil-fuel era. Focusing on the local realities in a growing coal and energy town of South Africa, Emalahleni, it explores whether a just transition from coal-generated energy is possible and what the local implications will be of this global restructuring of the energy sector.