The expansion of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydropower and bioenergy, is essential for the global transition to a more sustainable future. As countries seek to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels and cut greenhouse gas emissions, the expansion of renewable energy sources is rapidly reshaping landscapes and ecosystems. While this transition offers benefits in terms of climate change mitigation and enhanced energy security, it also presents significant challenges for landscape and biodiversity conservation, as well as in terms of acceptance by local communities.
At LAND, we study the energy transition by focusing on the inevitable landscape-related impacts that shape this transition. We analyse the effects of policies designed to facilitate the expansion of renewable energy sources on biodiversity and ecosystems. Moreover, we examine the local impacts of such policies, bridging national and supra-national policy goals with the decentralised development and land-use changes taking place at the local level. Our work is characterised by inter- and transdisciplinary approaches while working at different scales and planning levels. We hereby aim to develop integrated approaches to how technological, economic, environmental, ecological and social aspects can be brought together in spatial planning and site selection for renewable energy.
The overarching aim of our work is to conduct high-quality research in the field of landscape development and renewable energy, focusing on their environmental, economic, and social aspects. Our research uses both qualitative and quantitative methods to explore the complex interactions between renewable energy, landscape development and policy. Currently, we are investigating whether and to what extent EU policies promote both renewable energy development and biodiversity conservation and address trade-offs between them. Furthermore, we analyse the role of local governance in ensuring the successful implementation of the energy transition. Our research focuses on both Switzerland and the European context. The aim is to create scientifically and socially relevant knowledge to lay the foundations for the development of renewable energy in a way that is compatible with nature and the landscape.