Letters / Coffee table science
I have read with interest the comments from Evelyn Morrison (It’s all about making money, SN, 24 June 12) regarding Susan Bowie’s comments re the wind farm debate.
Once again we have a cited paper by Carl Philips from July 2011, which is heavily biased, not scientifically balanced and cites only eight references, four by the same author.
His paper can by no means be regarded as a cutting edge – it’s “coffee table science”, from a “coffee table” scientific journal from a mathematician and health economist based in Alberta.
Unfortunately another example of the internet being used as an authoritative source, without verifying or assessing the source of the information.
The cited paper is “substantiated” by the three anecdotal (unsubstantiated and emotive) reports of quotes from people who have apparently been disrupted by having large wind turbines, less than 300m, 400m and 500m from their homes – something that will not happen in Shetland.
As ever the scourge of having an appropriate perspective, is having the facts and data properly documented – and Carl Philips has not done so here.
Information on emerging EU policy to protect wildlife and human populations is available at
www.euractiv.com/climate-environment/eu-moves-protect-wildlife-wind-t-news-499400 and through sources from EU Commission on Research and Innovation at
http://ec.europa.eu/research/energy/eu/research/wind/index_en.htm
Once again, let’s stick to facts and data shall we?
Kind regards
Dr Helen Erwood
Lunna House
Shetland
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.