Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the plight of resource-depleted cities in Northern China, particularly focusing on 21 cities in North China and Northwest China, highlighting their struggles and survival strategies in the face of resource exhaustion [4][5]. Group 1: Coal Cities - Among the 21 cities, 16 are coal-depleted, with coal being the predominant resource, while 3 are depleting non-ferrous metals and 2 are oil-depleted [6][7]. - The coal resources in North and Northwest China are significantly more abundant than in Northeast China, which only accounts for less than 2% of the national coal resources [9][10]. - The six coal-producing regions north of the Kunlun-Qinling-Dabie Mountain line produce nearly half of the world's raw coal and contain over 90% of China's coal reserves [12][14]. - The cities of Shizuishan and Wuhai, known as the "twin coal cities," have been heavily impacted by mining activities, leading to severe ecological degradation [20][21]. - Shizuishan has a strong chemical industry base, producing 85% of the world's cyanamide, and is also a notable agricultural area [21]. - Wuhai, on the other hand, is focusing on coal chemical production and aims to become the global leader in BDO production, with potential to generate over 100 billion in coal chemical output [22][25]. Group 2: Shanxi Province - Shanxi Province is heavily reliant on coal, producing nearly one-seventh of the world's coal with significant economic implications [28]. - The province experienced a GDP growth of 28% in 2021 due to soaring coal prices, but faced a decline of 2.14% in 2024 as coal prices fell [30]. - The over-reliance on coal has led to environmental issues and a lack of diversification in the economy, making it difficult for the province to transition away from coal dependency [31][34]. Group 3: Oil Cities - The article contrasts the fortunes of coal cities with oil cities, highlighting the different trajectories of Puyang and Yumen, both of which are experiencing oil depletion [35][40]. - Puyang has adapted by processing imported oil and developing a petrochemical industry, maintaining its economic viability despite declining local oil production [41]. - In stark contrast, Yumen has faced severe decline, with its once-thriving oil industry collapsing and the city now largely abandoned, serving as a cautionary tale for resource-dependent cities [42][47]. Group 4: Overall Trends - The resource-depleted cities in Northern China exhibit a stark divide, with some cities managing to adapt and thrive while others face dire consequences [50]. - The future of these cities hinges on their ability to either deepen their reliance on resource extraction or pivot towards new economic models [51].