Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Opposition from Type D factions can stem from either real or perceived
problems. herefore, mitigating opposition from Type D factions can be
approached in a similar manner to mitigating opposition from Type C fac-
tions: i) correct misperceptions that fuel opposition, ii) amend real problems
that can be viably resolved, and iii) employ mediation to defuse emotions
when full resolutions are not possible.
2.5.5 Overall Lessons in Regard to Community Opposition
Overall, research tells us that a great deal of opposition can be avoided sim-
ply by correcting misperceptions. Improved communication can temper
emotions and attenuate local opposition. 55 Public forums, project websites,
community mailings, media management strategies, and opinion surveys
present opportunities for creative dialogues to take place. Often interaction
with stakeholders generates creative solutions. 56 Even when full resolutions
are not possible, public interaction allows citizens to vent and express their
opposition. While this may not fully appease dissatisied factions, research
indicates that allowing dissenters to voice concerns diminishes the heated
emotional response that often underlies public protest. 57 here are also
more advanced strategies to correct misperceptions. For example, taking
civic leaders and key stakeholders to visit established sites and discuss wind
power with citizens who have installations in their community can posi-
tively inluence perceptions.
In addition to ongoing discourse with community stakeholders, ive
other principles have been proposed to mitigate opposition to wind energy
projects. First, suicient distance between the project site and residential
areas should be preserved in order to minimize disruption caused by noise
and shadow licker. Second, in inhabited areas, turbines with noise damp-
ening devices should be mandated. hird, a project that inancially beneits
the local community garners improved support. herefore, initiatives to
encourage project participation from local irms and to entice community
ownership over wind power projects can help endear projects within com-
munities. 58 Fourth, if participants in the development have social ties to
the area, the propensity for community opposition diminishes. herefore,
project developers should endeavor to enlist the participation of local irms
to the greatest extent possible. Last, providing avenues for ongoing commu-
nity feedback purportedly diminishes extreme forms of resistance that can
cause project delays. 59 his can take the form of project websites and hot-
lines, on-site administrative oices (for larger projects), or even just regular
community meetings.
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