Photography: David Will
The search for renewable energy sources is a global priority, and Portugal is no exception. Among the expanding clean energy options in the country are offshore wind farms, which promise to make a significant contribution to decarbonizing the economy. However, recently, the Portuguese Society for the Study of Birds (SPEA) and the Oceano Azul Foundation have raised concerns about the potential impacts of these structures on seabirds, particularly in the areas of Ericeira and Viana do Castelo, calling for more in-depth studies before these projects move forward.
Ericeira is among the five areas identified by the government, scattered along the continental coast, for the large-scale development of the offshore renewable energy industry.
the transition to a cleaner energy matrix should not come at the expense of biodiversity
In addition to Ericeira, the regions of Viana do Castelo, Leixões, Figueira da Foz and Sines are also included in the offshore renewable energy development plan. However, SPEA and Oceano Azul Foundation specifically raise concerns about the sensitivity of Ericeira and Viana do Castelo areas.
Renewable energies, including offshore wind farms, play a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. Nevertheless, it is essential to remember that the transition to a cleaner energy matrix should not come at the cost of biodiversity.
A recent study by SPEA in collaboration with the Centre for Ecology (cE3c) and supported by the Oceano Azul Foundation, it emphasizes the importance of carefully assessing the potential impacts of offshore wind turbines on seabirds and identifying the most suitable areas for installing these structures.
ph. Joland / Maria João
Regarding Ericeira, both organizations highlight that the proposed area for the installation of wind structures overlaps with the area studied during the Oceano Azul Cascais Mafra Sintra Scientific Expedition in October 2022.
The expedition aimed to gather information about the natural values of the area, with the goal of proposing the creation of the Community-led Marine Protected Area (AMPIC) for Cascais, Mafra and Sintra.
This region is adjacent to two Special Protection Areas and serves as an habitat and feeding ground for the breeding population of Cory’s shearwaters on the Berlengas Islands, making it unique in terms of biodiversity.
the proposed area for the installation of wind structures overlaps with the area studied during the Oceano Azul Cascais Mafra Sintra Scientific Expedition
According to the organizations, “seabirds and coastal birds are among the most threatened animal groups in the world due to human impacts, such as accidental bycatch in fishing gear and pollution. They are the most affected group by the expansion of offshore wind farms due to collisions with turbine blades or the barrier effect created by wind farms, especially the loss of habitat that will inevitably occur due to the exploitation of extensive marine areas”.
Emanuel Gonçalves, scientific coordinator and administrator of the Oceano Azul Foundation, emphasizes the importance of addressing the expansion of offshore wind farms “with rules and knowledge so that the biodiversity agenda does not take a back seat to that of decarbonization”.
Domingos Leitão, Executive Director of SPEA, also highlights the need for transparency in the process and involving society, as the Portuguese maritime space and its natural resources belong to all Portuguese citizens.
The organizations recognizes the “political ambition” to proceed with the auction of the designated areas before the end of the year, given the urgency of the energy transition. Nonetheless, it is crucial to gather extensive technical and scientific knowledge before advancing with these projects. Maintaining the balance between the demand for renewable energy sources and the protection of biodiversity is essential to ensure a sustainable future for Portugal and its seabirds and coastal birds.
Esta publicação também está disponível em | This article is also available in: Portuguese (Portugal)
