Half-Length and the FACT framework: Distance-decay and citizen opposition to energy facilities

Despite a global push for clean energy to combat climate change, air pollution, and energy insecurity, a frustrating obstacle emerges: citizen opposition. New wind farms, solar arrays, and transmission lines face resistance even as their vital role in achieving crucial Paris Agreement targets becomes increasingly clear. Understanding the complex factors driving this “NIMBY” (Not In My Backyard) phenomenon is key to unlocking a sustainable future.

This research delves into the spatial dimension of citizen opposition, exploring how distance plays a crucial role. By developing innovative metrics, we shed light on how opposition wanes as distance increases from proposed facilities. This knowledge empowers stakeholders to navigate the NIMBY dilemma, fostering community-supported clean energy deployment and securing a brighter, greener future.