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How Offshore Wind Development Affects Wildlife

National Wildlife Federation supports the development of offshore wind energy as a critical part of the solution to climate change, which threatens wildlife and habitat across the globe. From sea level rise to the warming of mountain peaks, entire species and ecosystems are in jeopardy.

According to the world’s leading scientists, as many as 30% of species worldwide will face extinction this century if warming trends continue. If we are to protect wildlife from the dangers of a warming world, then we must take appropriate, responsible action to bring the offshore wind energy resources of the Atlantic Ocean ashore.

Protecting the Atlantic Wildlife

The Atlantic Ocean and its estuaries are home to a rich array of fish and wildlife species that must be protected in our pursuit of offshore wind energy. All major energy sources have some impact on wildlife, but poorly sited and designed renewable energy projects are bad for wildlife and impediments to the clean energy we need.

National Wildlife Federation believes that offshore wind energy can and must be located, constructed, and operated in a way that does not threaten our sensitive coastal and marine wildlife such as birds, sea turtles, and whales. While conditions differ in Europe, offshore wind energy has been developed extensively there, and studies found no significant or long-term impacts on wildlife in the area.

Technological advancements now allow offshore wind farms to be sited farther offshore, greatly reducing potential conflict with migratory birds and other species. NWF supports using sound science to collect needed wildlife data, refine decision making tools and best practices for offshore wind energy developers, and develop formal standards and guidance for wildlife protections.