An
innovative guide for wind farms is to be produced by the Scottish Government,
industry and charities to help protect bird life. The Scottish Windfarm Bird Steering Group,
made up of the Scottish Government, Scottish Natural Heritage, RSPB Scotland
and Scottish Renewables, has already spent more than £50,000 on a series of
studies.
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At
a summit in Perth tomorrow, the partnership will announce the development of a ‘Good Practice Guide’ on how bird populations, and the habitats on which they
depend, can be more effectively managed, as well as the results of work done to
date. More funding is already earmarked for future studies to help develop the
guide.
Environment
Minister Paul Wheelhouse welcomed the move, saying: “This is an important step
forward, demonstrating that the renewables industry and conservation groups are
working together to help the conservation of bird populations across Scotland.”
“It
is particularly encouraging to see the focus from the group to base the guide
on real evidence rather than on speculation. By working closely with the
industry I am sure they will produce a practical guide for the future.” The
Scottish Windfarm Bird Steering Group (SWBSG) has research worth around £54,000
underway. The Scottish Government; SNH; RSPB Scotland; Scottish Renewables and
industry partners SSE; ScottishPower Renewables; RES and Vattenfall fund the
group.
The
research projects, currently being carried out by Stirling and Newcastle
Universities, are examining the long-term effects of wind farm developments on
birds, habitat management and the methods and techniques used in monitoring and
surveying birds.
Professor Colin Galbraith, Chairman of the SWBSG, stressed
the need to work with industry in order to produce guidance that can be put
into practice at sites across Scotland. He said: “The renewables industry is
acutely aware of the need to protect the environment and this guide will
provide it with additional tools to do this.”
“By involving industry and
conservation groups in its production, the guide will build on existing
monitoring of bird populations and data-sharing initiatives, as well as
providing a unique overview and insight into the techniques used to manage
habitats for birds around wind farms.” Joss Blamire, Senior Policy Manager at
Scottish Renewables, said: “The SWBSG is a good example of industry and
government working pro-actively together to develop ground-breaking research. The work of the group will feed into the Good Practice Guide and help industry
formulate plans for responsible wind farm developments in Scotland, continuing
their role in creating jobs and economic growth while simultaneously benefiting
our natural environment.”
Read
more at ENN Affiliate ClickGreen.
Birds and Wind Turbines image via Shutterstock.