Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
sources of concern are identiied, strategies can be developed to i) correct
misperceptions, ii) design and implement solutions, or iii) attempt to dilute
opposition by highlighting project beneits that ofset the areas of concern.
On the other hand, it is unlikely that Type B opposition can be fully
eliminated because such opposition frequently stems from misperceptions
caused by entrenched and opposing ideologies. Although NIABY factions
are typically small,
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opposition by such factions can fuel opposition from
other groups (such as Type C groups described in the next paragraph).
Fortunately, as opposed to nuclear energy, NIABY opposition to wind
power is rarely substantial enough to stimulate large-scale public protest.
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With that said, in some countries there are well-organized, vocal groups
that oppose wind power, such as the Country Guardians in the United
Kingdom, the Association for Protection of the Landscape in Sweden, and
Windkraftgegner in Germany.
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Negotiation is typically the only way to allay
opposition from such groups.
Opposition from Type C factions occurs when new information emerges
which alters perceptions of a project. In some cases, negative perceptions
are based on misinformation which can be intentional (i.e., opponents to
a wind project spreading false information) or unintentional (i.e., media
reports which focus on only one or two aspects of a wind project). It can be
argued that the logical approach for diminishing opposition based on mis-
information is to try and ensure that all stakeholders receive comprehen-
sive information on the pros and cons of a given project prior to the project
being approved. However, many wind power developers anecdotally note
that in some circumstances presenting such a comprehensive analysis
prior to project initiation could also unnecessarily exacerbate opposition
if communications are not efectively handled. he lesson appears to be
that more communication is best, but the efectiveness of communication
cannot be ignored. When such opposition emerges, improved information
dissemination may restore positive support. However, entrenched per-
spectives—even based on false information—can be hard to alter, espe-
cially if the source of the misinformation continues to perpetuate such
perspectives.
In other cases, negative perceptions are based on justiiable concerns
that have emerged. In these cases, revisions to the project may appease con-
cerned parties. In yet other cases, the source of negative perception may be
both well-founded and irresolvable. In these cases, mediation eforts may at
least help to dilute the strength of opposition. A starting point for restoring
support from Type C opponents is to irst identify why negative perceptions
have emerged and craft solutions accordingly.
