More wind farms no threat to wildlife

The UK could greatly increase the number of onshore wind farms without threatening wildlife, according to the RSPB.

In a report by the Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP), commissioned by the society, the UK was found to be lagging far behind other European countries in the drive for wind power.

However, Scotland significantly outperformed other parts of the UK.

Wind turbines met just 2% of the UK’s energy demands in 2007.

This put the nation 13th in the European league tables, trailing behind tiny Estonia and only just ahead of Belgium.

The report calls on the government to step in to ensure better and quicker decisions on wind farms while protecting wildlife and winning the backing of local communities.

After looking at the leading countries for wind power generation, including Denmark where it meets 29% of demand, the report drew conclusions on how to protect wildlife and deliver wind power on a large scale.

It recommended that the government should address the lack of specialist knowhow in local authorities, set targets and take account of the fact wind power is a national priority.

More ways for communities to benefit from wind farms on their doorstep should also be developed to encourage public support.

This could include reduced bills, money for local facilities or direct ownership.

“The UK’s planning systems must encourage a step change in the construction of wind power,” said David Baldock, IEEP director.

“Experiences elsewhere show that this is possible.

“The government must adopt a strong, proactive approach and carefully consider turbine placement to minimise damage to birds and other wildlife.

“Only then will the UK be able to meet binding targets.”

Ruth Davis, RSPB head of climate change policy, said the need for renewable energy could not be more urgent.

“Left unchecked, climate change threatens many species with extinction,” she said.