Landscape is formed in the mind and through dialog

Our own background, everyday life, job and personal experiences all play an important role in this. Accordingly, it can be perceived as a loss of history or identity when, for example, certain buildings disappear or a particular tree is cut down. Landscape is always emotionally charged. 

In the debate over whether and where solar panels and wind turbines should be installed in order to advance the energy transition, objectives such as landscape protection, environmental protection and nature conservation are pitted against one another. Not everyone understands these terms in the same way... 

Exactly. When it comes to renewable energy, differing notions often clash. Those for whom landscape is untouched nature will find wind turbines or solar panels disruptive. Those for whom, on the other hand, landscape is a space designed and used by humans see them as an expression of innovation and progress. The energy transition does therefore also impact concepts about what a landscape should look like and what it is expected to provide. Solar panels and wind turbines are now part of the landscape in many places, and people are getting used to them – which may lead to a shift in landscape narratives.

Which landscape narratives are currently particularly influential in Switzerland?

Two narratives are particularly powerful because they are also linked to the national identity and are therefore particularly widespread. The first is the notion of the untamed alpine landscape, which is said to define Switzerland’s character. The second is the idea that the Swiss landscape is fundamentally rural and must be protected from urbanization. These images are very much part of the societal fabric and are repeatedly reproduced in advertising and in representations of the nation. While images of mountains, cows or rural idylls are often used to indicate “Swissness”, urban or industrial spaces are less visible. This also raises the question of who actually recognizes themselves in these widespread images and narratives, and who and what are excluded. 

What do you mean by that?

Let me give you an example: if we understand landscape as untouched nature, we exclude a large part of what makes up our daily lives. In Switzerland, most people live in small cities or in the catchment area of larger cities, commonly referred to as metropolitan areas. 

While there are many narratives about mountain landscapes, we rarely talk about these built-up landscapes, or they are simply portrayed as a threat to nature. There is also very little academic research on urban and peri-urban landscapes and the narratives referring to them. I find this extremely regrettable. It’s important to include these areas.

Do landscape narratives differ across different population groups or regions?

Yes, very significantly indeed. What is particularly interesting is the difference between people who live in a particular landscape and those who view it from the outside. For instance, people from cities often have different narratives about alpine regions than those who reside and have to make a living there. These different perspectives and needs produce different answers to questions about wolves, nature conservation or tourism, and lead to debates that result in political negotiation processes or even conflicts. 

How should policymakers respond to these different needs?

Competition between narratives is the norm, as the different narratives are sometimes difficult to reconcile with one another. It’s not about who’s right; landscape narratives are differing perceptions of the same reality. This must be recognized. 

Policymakers need to mediate between the different needs and perceptions, while at the same time reflecting on and disclosing which narratives they are promoting in landscape design. Of course, it is not only narratives that play a role here, but also practical issues and other topics such as housing, infrastructure and the environment. 

What advice would you give to policymakers on dealing with landscape narratives?

Policymakers should be aware that every decision reinforces certain narratives and weakens others. In my view, it is therefore important to include as many perspectives as possible and to deliberately weigh up the impact decisions have on different population groups and their sense of identity. It’s not about pleasing everyone, but about treating this diversity with respect.