Are wind turbines integrated into landscape? an analysis of its social perception in a spanish mediterranean area

Abstract Context Renewable energy sources development has introduced wind farms as a regular landscape element. However, human-made elements, influence on landscape's scenic beauty differently according to the socio-demographic characteristics of beholder. Objectives In this regard, study analyses population's visual perception into Mediterranean landscapes with reference three social variables: gender, age and education level. Method People's preferences were assessed through two on-line surveys several photographs, without turbines. Subsequently, score each photograph was statistically analyzed regarding showed respondents' variables. Results The results demonstrate how vegetation had positive effect in landscape' beauty, especially forest, well people do not perceive negatively turbines presence. fact, their implementation deteriorated or low scored improves its beauty. Lastly, despite fact that people's perception, there is trend between these factors landscape. Conclusions addition reinforce effects landscape’ have become new element that, general, negative impact but, age, different consideration appeared.