Abstract
This paper looks at the development of wind farms in the German Exclusive Economic Zone. Since wind farms are large structures that can have multiple ecological as well as socio – economic impacts, the author outlines a need for Integrated Coastal Zone Management. To examine potential impacts and risks, this paper uses the North Sea coast of Schleswig – Holstein as a case study.
Wind energy is an important energy alternative from non-renewable energies. However, there are a few issues to consider. A few concerns include the need to develop comprehensive Integrated Assessments (Strategic Environmental Impact Assessment), integrative collaboration methods between local, European and global actors, spatial planning structures, multiuse concepts for wind farm areas, etc. Among these concerns, it is very important for locals to feel involved in the process.