Birds and Climate / Birds and Clean Energy

Birds and Offshore Wind Report

Developing the offshore wind that birds need.
Piping Plover. Photo: Cole Parks/探花精选 Photography Awards

Birds and people face unprecedented challenges from climate change, with two-thirds of North American bird species at risk of extinction. Transitioning to clean energy is one of the quickest and most effective ways to protect them from climate impacts, and offshore wind offers key advantages over other clean energy sources. For example, wind speeds are generally higher, more frequent and more constant offshore, which generates more electricity over longer periods. 

探花精选's January 2025 report, , shares the latest research, offers policy recommendations, and outlines a science-based path to environmentally responsible development amid a changing climate. 

Off the coast of Rhode Island stand the nation鈥檚 first five offshore turbines (photographed here during a LightHawk flight). Photo: Lauren Owens Lambert

Birds and Offshore Wind Report

探花精选's January 2025 report highlights the latest research and outlines science-based path to environmentally responsible development in a changing climate.

Additional Resources

探花精选 is part of a coalition of conservation groups that have reviewed the latest science-based research on offshore wind development and whales. More information is available . 

 

Planning, Permitting, and Policy

  • Offshore wind energy development is governed by a multi-layered regulatory framework involving federal and state agencies, with several stages that require extensive environmental review and public consultation.
  • This process is designed to assess and mitigate potential impacts on birds and other wildlife, with input gathered from relevant agencies, Tribes, environmental organizations, and local communities.
  • Policies must prioritize wildlife protection and community benefits while accelerating development to ensure offshore wind is deployed effectively and responsibly. 

探花精选 staff and local chapters advocate for responsible siting and operation of offshore wind projects to avoid and minimize environmental impacts and ensure conservation measures for birds are integrated.  For more information, visit our Birds and Clean Energy page.  

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