Peering through the smoke? Tensions in landscape visualisation

Landscape visualisation using three-dimensional modelling and virtual reality techniques has emerged as a significant element of research into the environmental impacts of both location specific developments (e.g. a new windfarm) and more widespread environmental change (e.g. climate change). As a technique it has much to commend it, bringing the ability to inform and encourage participation and debate. Within the context of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) as a whole, visualisation techniques are becoming more user-friendly, with at least an appearance of entertainment as well. However, the techniques of landscape visualisation remain highly expert-oriented in spite of some recent moves to more directly involve users in aspects of scene preparation. Technical experts remain at the core of the process which raises significant points about the intersection of values about landscape and change and the processes by which these are communicated and understood by a wider audience.