From “NIMBY” to “YIMBY”: Problems and Solutions of Environmental Protest in Taiwan
Author: Chang-tay Chiou
Abstract / Chinese PDF Download
“NIMBY (Not In My Backyard)” syndrome is essential in environmental protest. Thus how to change “NIMBY” into “YIMBY(Yes In My Backyard)” becomes the principal purpose of this research. This paper began with clarifying the concept and relevant literature of NIMBY studies. Then, the author described the development of environmental protests in Taiwan during past two decades. Thirdly, problems in environmental protest based upon NIMBY syndrome were systematically explored. Fourthly, an empirical of case study at By-Mi Community in I-Lan county showed that grass-root community empowerment by environmental issue is an effective tool to alleviate the anxious relation between residents and NIMBY facilities owners. This paper concluded that community empowerment is a feasible way out of the dilemma of NIMBY syndrome. Five strategies were also suggested to accomplish the vision of community empowerment by environmental issue in Taiwan’s grass-root environmental movement.