What’s new?
4 June 2008
Offshore windfarm announcement
A statement from Joan Edwards, The Wildlife Trusts’ head of marine policy:
“We welcome today’s announcement of the third round of offshore windfarms. The Wildlife Trusts are fully supportive of the Government’s ambitious renewable energy targets, and we recognise the need for a new round of offshore licensing to help achieve them. Our seas are showing signs of climate change faster even than habitats on land, and we strongly support the role of renewable energy in mitigating climate change.
“Like any development, offshore windfarms have an impact on seabed habitats and marine wildlife. It is vital that the planning, and licensing, of windfarms takes these impacts fully into account so that the most sensitive sites are avoided and all impacts minimised. Our approach is to work closely with the regulators and developers to find the best solutions. What is more, we recognise that by excluding fishing activity such as bottom trawling, offshore windfarms may make a contribution to marine conservation.
“Environmental concerns are sometimes suggested to be the main obstacle to renewable energy development at sea. As reflected in the Crown Estate’s statement, the environment is actually just one of many issues that need to be addressed. Frequently, it is objections from other stakeholders – rather than from conservationists – that are slowing the process down. For example, there are potential conflicts with navigation, military activity and commercial fishing. We are one of the stakeholders that chooses to work with the renewables industry rather than against it, to ensure the best outcome for wildlife and natural habitats.
“We will look carefully at the preferred areas for Round 3 windfarms and examine the analysis that led to their selection. If we have concerns about any of the locations, we will raise these with the regulators at the earliest opportunity.”
For further information please contact Anna Guthrie, media and PR manager on 01636 670075 or aguthrie@wildlifetrusts.org