Wind Turbines Harming Wildlife 5 Ways To Reduce Their Ecological Footprint

Wind Turbines Harming Wildlife 5 Ways To Reduce Their Ecological Footprint

1 Sound

Most species of birds and bats are extremely sensitive to noise.

Bats, in particular, can locate objects based on the reflection of sound, through a process known as echolocation.

Conservationists are collaborating with engineers to create ultrasonic sound boxes that will warn bats of wind turbines.

This technology, known as ultrasonic acoustic determent, emits high-frequency sounds that confuse bats and warn them to stay away from the general area.

While the technology is still in the early stages of development, tests have demonstrated that these sound devices can reduce the number of bat deaths by half.

2 Speed

Studies have found that bats are more active in low-wind weather patterns.

Innovations in wind technology include turbines that can operate at a lower energy speed, and even stop running when wind potential is low.

This can prevent harming bats traveling through low-wind weather patterns.

3 Color

Some wind farms have started painting turbines with UV-reflective paint to reduce the number of wildlife collisions.

The European Journal of Wildlife Research found that particular turbine colors attract certain insects, which in turn attracts their predators.

Scientists are also experimenting with using UV lights to deter bats from wind farms, which is easily transmitted through the air and undetectable by humans.

4 Shape

Design alterations also play a role in wind turbine speed.

For bird populations, including endangered species like the golden eagle, perches on wind turbines can look like attractive places to rest.

Scientists and engineers are also exploring the efficiency and safety of vertical axis rotors, which may reduce the number of bird interactions.

5 Location

Site selection is the most important factor in reducing the biological impact of wind turbines.

Unfortunately, too many wind farms are installed without consideration for the local ecosystem, and no preventative measures are taken.

While it is impossible to avoid impact completely, the American Bird Conservancy suggests avoiding areas that are identified as critical to certain species, such as wetlands and migratory flight paths.

Unlike solar, wind power is a little more restricted in its placement.

However, it is easily installed on previously degraded areas, such as industrial or commercial brownfields.

These sites are preferable to more sensitive ecosystems that are home to innumerable wildlife.

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Full article:
https://ecowarriorprincess.net..../2020/04/wind-turbin