RSPB calls on Government to protect Yorkshire Coast seabirds – GHR

On World Seabirds Day (Saturday 3rd July), the nature charity says that coastal waters off Yorkshire are internationally important for many seabirds, and while recognising the need for energy to come from renewable sources, it says it is vital that when these are planned, they take into account bird populations.

Helen Quayle, Policy Officer for RSPB, said:

“As we move towards hosting the COP26 Climate Conference we are reminded of the important role the UK can play in leading the way towards a sustainable and just energy transition.

“Unfortunately, offshore wind expansion has taken place in the absence of effective marine planning – the type of system that allocates space for different activities on land. That means that this technology is being built in some of our most important places for marine wildlife.”

The RSPB says that poorly located offshore wind can impact seabirds, like puffins and kittiwakes, in a variety of ways during construction and operation. This includes through collision, disturbance, direct habitat loss, blocking important flight pathways, and loss of access to preferred foraging areas. It adds that these threats are compounded by other issues seabirds face such as the reduced availability of forage fish such as sandeels due to overfishing and climate pressure.

Helen added:

“These impacts can result from one windfarm and by the presence of multiple windfarms. The cumulative impact, from multiple windfarms combined with other activities and developments, has now reached the point where, when put alongside a cocktail of other threats, we risk losing our seabirds.

The RSPB says that there is still time to implement meaningful change.

Helen said:

“Developers must take new innovative approaches to avoid and minimise the impacts of offshore wind on seabirds, however, the challenge is too great for them to solve alone. The Government has an opportunity to lead the way in truly sustainable, “nature positive”, offshore wind. For example, through comprehensive marine plans that reflect the dual climate and ecological emergencies by prioritising space for wildlife. To turn the tide for our seas, we need to act now; climate and nature cannot wait any longer.”