When the 27 most powerful men and women in Europe signed up to ambitious targets for increasing the use of renewable energy, the great and the good were quick to herald a breakthrough in the long-term challenge of sustaining our global environment.
Germany of course, along with Spain and Denmark, are considered leaders in the use of wind and solar (PV) energy, and amongst those setting a pace toward the EU's target of 20% of energy supplies from renewable sources by 2020. Unfortunately, for other signatories the progress is not so good. The UK Government for example has stated that the UK is "slightly behind the course needed to meet this aim". That is political speak for saying the UK will not meet the 20% target. And they are not alone amongst the 27 member states of the European Union.
Communication with the NIMBY set
Whether in London, Milan, Munich or Paris, ask anyone in the street if a more sustainable future is a good thing for any country and the survey will boast massive ratings for a cleaner greener future. Ask the same people if they want a wind farm in their village and the pollsters will report massive opposition.