‘Things are not always what they seem!’

Interview with Pierre Mellina
Major of the town of Pétange

Tell us a bit about Pétange.
Pierre Mellina: Pétange experienced rapid development thanks to the southwestern railway junction that was formerly located here. Many people are unaware that Pétange has much more to offer than just the station and the factory. Apart form that, there are vast forests, fields and walking trails that can be found in our three districts. This proves that things are not always what they seem.

What is your vision for Pétange between now and 2030?
As a member of the klimaBündnis Lëtzebuerg and th Ëmewltberodung Lëtzebuerg, the municipality tackles projects around protecting air and water quality, biodiversity, and waste reduction through prevention, recycling and the development of a circular economy every year. The installation of photovoltaic panels and the 100% use of nova naturstroum in municipal buildings, the financial support offered to residents for green installations, soft mobility, the gradual replacement of municipal vehicles with electric vehicles or the integration of new building materials in urban planning all promote our energy transition, which is essential for the future.

What are your three highlights in the Esch2022 programme?

1. My first highlight was the launch evening on 26 February in Esch-Alzette and Belval, which kicked off a year packed with events.
2. Projects in the region

I am also looking forward to discovering the individual projects initiated by the many artists or colectives in the region and finding out how they have interpreted the major themes of Esch2022. www.ESCH2022.lu

3. Péitenger Wandjang

Naturally, I won’t miss the famous European Cavalcade, which takes place on 27 March in Pétange and covers a route of almost 6 km.

The municipality of Pétange, Rodange and Lamadelaine is covered with forests in which Pierre Melina likes to go for walks.

©Mike Zenari, Maison Moderne