NOT IN MY BACK YARD. THE NIMBY CONCEPT.

This week I have learnt a new concept called NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard).

It is a pejorative characterization of opposition by residents to a proposal for a new development because it is close to them, often with the connotation that such residents believe that the developments are needed in society but should be further away.

Examples of proyects likely to be opposed are; fracking, chemical plants,wind turbines, incinerators, mobile phone masts, nuclear waste repositories, etc...

In Spain there is a word for this concept; SPAN (Sí, Pero Aquí No).

Talking about environment, this concept is linked to renewable energy. It is the case of solar and wind power instalations because objections frequently arise. Residents fear that a solar or wind farm will cause property devaluation, health problems or unsightly views.

All solutions have to do with education, overcoming fear of the unknow and misinformation.

It must have direct community involvement, the government have to explain with examples the issue and there will be heightened levels of consultation. On the other hand, the NIMBY has produced that politicians, organizations and companies take social responsibility measures as compensation.

In contrast and opposition to Nimby phenomenon, an acronim for yes in my back yard exists, YIMBY. Yimby referes to some of the groups that encourage the installation of clean energy sources, such as wind turbines.