Sustainable coexistence: Wind energy development and beekeeping prosperity-a propensity score matching approach

Abstract

Beneath the promise of clean energy, the rapid rise of wind energy farms has stirred mounting concern for pollinator-dependent livelihoods-particularly in beekeeping. This study investigates the effect of wind energy farms on honey-related income using data from six provinces in Turkiye's Aegean region and the propensity score matching method. Results show that beekeepers operating near wind energy farms experience significantly higher incomes-an average treatment gain of 45,107 TL, with treated groups earning 56,515 TL more-backed by several robust statistical evidence such as placebo and bootstrap techniques. Certain groups-such as younger, nomadic, and family-trained beekeepers, and those receiving financial support-exhibit greater resilience. The findings highlight the need for land-use strategies that balance renewable energy development with ecological and economic concerns. Introducing bee-friendly vegetation around turbines is proposed as a practical solution. This approach can foster a mutually beneficial relationship between wind energy farms and beekeeping, supporting both rural livelihoods and the broader goals of sustainable development.