Low Carbon Energy Controversies

Governments, big business and communities are coming under increased pressure to develop low carbon energy supply technologies. However, public opposition to the development of the siting and implementation of the technology associated infrastructure often complicates progress. This is sometimes labelled the 'not in my backyard' or NIMBY attitude - an unhelpful tag as conflicts over new development between governments, local authorities, business and communities are generally far more complex than NIMBY theory implies. Furthermore, within the context of the climate change debate a delicate balance has to be reached between local environmental protection and our need for reliable low carbon energy. This comprehensive book builds on over 10 years of research conducted by the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research and uses a range of case studies from carbon capture and storage to on-shore wind farms to explore the complex nature of disputes between a wide variety of stakeholder groups. Topics covered include the importance of context, the relationship between risk and trust, sense of place and the role of the media. An invaluable resource for researchers and readers in local or national government, industry or community groups who wish to deepen their understanding of controversy around low carbon technology and how to overcome it.