Landscape and Visual Integration Study | Environmental Consultancy

What the landscape and visual integration study is

The landscape and visual integration study analyses a project's visual impact on the surrounding landscape, identifying the affected viewshed, the potential observers and the magnitude of the perceived change, with the aim of proposing integration measures that minimise the visual impact. It is a usual component of the Environmental Impact Study, particularly relevant in renewable-energy projects (wind farms, solar plants, power lines) because of their visibility at medium and long range.

What it analyses

Characterisation of the landscape of the study area: landscape units, landscape quality and visual fragility of the territory.
The project's viewshed, i.e. the area from which the installations will potentially be visible, calculated using digital elevation models.
Identification of relevant observers: population centres, viewpoints, transport routes, heritage features or protected natural areas from which the project will be visible.
Visual simulations (photomontages) from the most relevant observation points, showing the real appearance of the project once built.
Impact assessment combining landscape fragility, the magnitude of the change and the relevance of the affected observers.

Landscape integration measures

When the analysis detects a significant visual impact, measures such as the following are proposed:

Vegetation screens with native species at critical visibility points.
Colour treatment of the installations to reduce contrast with the surroundings.
Reconfiguration of the project layout to reduce visibility from the most sensitive observers.
Undergrounding of power line sections in areas of particular landscape sensitivity.

Why choose Ideas Medioambientales

We carry out landscape studies with viewshed modelling and realistic photomontages, integrated into the EIA of renewable-energy and infrastructure projects, providing rigorous analysis that facilitates social acceptance of the project and compliance with the landscape conditions of the DIA. Our in-house multidisciplinary team, with more than 25 years of experience and ISO 9001, 14001 and 45001 certification, works across the whole of Spain from our offices in Albacete and Madrid.

Tell us your project's location and we will tell you what scope of landscape study you need.

Book a 30-minute meeting and tell us about your projects.

You can also contact us today to talk about your project.

What can we cover in 30 minutes?

It's more than enough time to have an overview of your needs and recommend the best route forward. Here there is a summary of the steps we will follow.

1. Let's get to know your project

We want you to walk us through your project's main goals and concerns; and based on that, we’ll set an approach to make the most of the meeting.

2. Quick assessment: identifying challenges and opportunities

We will analyze the key aspects of your project, such as its location, applicable regulations, deadlines and potential environmental impacts, highlighting the main challenges and opportunities.

3. Tailored solutions: how can we help you

We will suggest you the services that best suit your needs, explaining how we work to ensure regulatory compliance and sustainability, while answering any questions that you may have.

4. Action Plan: let's keep moving forward together

We will wrap up with a summary of the key points, suggesting clear next steps such as a quote or a follow-up meeting. We will remain at your disposal to accompany you as your project moves forward.