Offshore wind farms: policymakers are more influenced by reports that accentuate negative impacts – new study
Towering up to 260m above the ocean’s surface, modern wind turbines are impressive feats of engineering, producing much-needed renewable energy. But what happens beneath the waves?
Government policymakers need reliable evidence to make planning decisions about new offshore wind developments and ensure positive outcomes. Currently, this evidence comes from a huge variety of sources, resulting in a lack of consistency and conflicting conclusions.
Definitive metrics for assessing and measuring improvements to the environment need to be decided to achieve marine net gain. And diverse voices are needed from the energy industry, wildlife conservation, fishing and recreational sectors to ensure that this marine urbanisation favours positive gains across the board.
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