ESG factors in sustainable project management in wind power parks: problems and best practices, case studies from Finland and Iran
Mousavizadeh, Seyedehsan (2024)
2024
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024082624391
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024082624391
Tiivistelmä
This study investigates the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) problems that project managers encounter in wind power projects (WPPs) to achieve sustainability outcomes and the practices and strategies they follow to resolve these issues. With the increasing adoption of wind energy as a renewable source to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependency on fossil fuels, addressing the ESG-related issues associated with WPPs is crucial. This research is based on a literature review and five semi-structured interviews with mid- and high-level project managers from Finland and Iran. The results offer a comparative analysis of the problems and mitigation strategies employed in these regions.
The research identifies key environmental, social, governance, and economic issues of WPPs. Environmental concerns include impacts on wildlife, noise pollution, and shadow flicker, while social issues encompass land use conflicts, community well-being, and social acceptance. Governance and economic problems related to regulatory frameworks, stakeholder coordination, and lack of investment due to high costs.
The study highlights that project managers should address ESG factors to increase social acceptance of WPPs, which is essential for their successful implementation and operation. Stakeholder engagement is identified as one of the most effective strategies for gaining social acceptance, as it involves actively engaging with local communities, providing transparent information, and demonstrating a commitment to addressing their concerns. This approach helps build trust and gain the support necessary for the long-term success and sustainability of wind power projects.
The research identifies key environmental, social, governance, and economic issues of WPPs. Environmental concerns include impacts on wildlife, noise pollution, and shadow flicker, while social issues encompass land use conflicts, community well-being, and social acceptance. Governance and economic problems related to regulatory frameworks, stakeholder coordination, and lack of investment due to high costs.
The study highlights that project managers should address ESG factors to increase social acceptance of WPPs, which is essential for their successful implementation and operation. Stakeholder engagement is identified as one of the most effective strategies for gaining social acceptance, as it involves actively engaging with local communities, providing transparent information, and demonstrating a commitment to addressing their concerns. This approach helps build trust and gain the support necessary for the long-term success and sustainability of wind power projects.