Embedding nature’s recovery in offshore wind

For World Oceans Day, RSPB NI hosted an event at Stormont (9 June) to throw a spotlight on the need for embedding nature’s recovery into offshore wind.  

In Northern Ireland, targets under the Climate Change Act mean at least 80% of electricity consumption must be from renewable sources by 2030. This will be crucial in helping reduce our net carbon emissions to zero by 2050. At RSPB, we support the need for the increased development of renewable energy including offshore wind, however, this needs to be designed and located in harmony with nature if we are to address the inextricably linked nature and climate emergency. 

The UK is home to almost 8 million seabirds, including globally important numbers of several species, such as gannet. In NI, our largest seabird colony on Rathlin Island supports vulnerable species such as kittiwakes and puffins. These seabirds are a key indicator of the overall health of marine ecosystems, but UK populations have fallen drastically in recent decades. 

Wind farms can add to the pressures these species are facing if they’re not in the right location – and 79% of the public here in Northern Ireland do not want new renewable developments to impact upon sensitive species and habitats on land and at sea.  

RSPB has been working with governments across the UK and the renewable industry sector to advocate for: 

• More research and monitoring on how wildlife uses our local seas and interacts with offshore renewables.
• Good marine spatial planning, which makes sure development is happening in areas that will not impact marine wildlife.
• Invest in conservation measures to turn the tide for seabirds and restore our seas. 

At RSPB NI, we know that thriving seas and vibrant with wildlife are essential for tackling the climate emergency. That’s why we hosted this World Oceans Day event at Stormont, which was sponsored by Emma Sheerin MLA (event sponsor) and attended by Assembly members and industry professionals, to work to ensure new offshore wind developments in our seas are sustainable and work for nature.  
 
Presentations were given by experts from across the RSPB including Principal Conservation Scientist, Gillian Gilbert and Head of Casework, Andrew Dodd, with the Minister for the Economy, Dr Caoimhe Archibald providing a keynote speech. This was followed by panel discussions with experts from BirdWatch Ireland, Queens University, Renewables NI and Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs.  

RSPB NI would like to see a more joined-up approach to shape a future where offshore renewable energy and environmental stewardship go hand in hand, whilst also protecting and working to restore thriving seas- our ally in taking action on climate change.