This paper assesses the existing knowledge base to better understand the economic, social and political consequences of mine closures at the national and subnational scales. Over the next decade, coal mines will likely close across the world, as many countries shift their energy systems away from fossil fuels and towards cleaner energy. This will not only be driven by climate policies, but also by other factors, including the rapidly falling costs of renewable energy, concerns about air pollution, and global shifts in coal demand.