Evidence synthesis in landscape aesthetics: an honourable endeavour yet insufficient applicable knowledge

Abstract

Considerable research effort, over more than 30 years, has been directed toward better understanding of the way people respond to diverse and changing landscapes. Knowledge of human responses to a changing world is an essential ingredient in successful implementation of measures which protect our socio-ecological wellbeing. However, decision-making seldom flows from individual pieces of research. Evidence needs to be synthesised through systematic procedures, including meta-analysis, before having even the potential to influence policy makers. This paper reviews evidence synthesis in the field of landscape aesthetics, especially in the context of wind energy and forest management. It looks then at the impact of this research, as expressed in guidelines and policies and finds that while there are some meaningful links, the individuality of each landscape change makes empirical findings hard to generalise, beyond a rather superficial level, and their application, especially in a political context, problematic.