Wind Shadows Rip the Sea: Wind Power and Ecological Questions in 2009

Wind Shadows Rip the Sea: Wind Power and Ecological Questions in 2009

In 2009, the introduction of wind power generation was gaining momentum in Japan. In Japan, large wind turbines have been installed one after another, mainly in Hokkaido, Tohoku, and other regions blessed with favorable wind conditions, and their number has swelled more than tenfold in the past seven years. While being hailed as the standard bearer of renewable energy, there is another shadow growing behind the quiet expansion that has been overlooked by everyone.

In particular, attention was focused on the potential of offshore wind power generation. In Japan, the potential for power generation in coastal areas and the open ocean, where wind conditions are more favorable than on land, is extremely high, with power generation potential estimated to be about 180 million kW for the implantable type and 380 million kW for the floating type. In Europe, more than 700 megawatts of implantable power plants have already been installed, and moves to follow this trend have begun in Japan.

However, offshore wind power generation faces a number of challenges. One is the conflict with fishing rights. The ocean is not just space. Traditional fishing methods and local lifestyles have their roots there, and any new structure would create friction with the users of the sea. In addition, there are concerns about the high cost of installation and maintenance and, above all, the impact on marine ecosystems.

The rotation of wind turbines intersects with the flight paths of birds and can cause bird strikes (collision deaths), which are especially fatal to migratory birds. In addition, underwater foundation structures have unpredictable effects on fish and marine mammals through modification of the seafloor environment and interference with acoustic waves. At present, there is a lack of long-term data on these issues, and empirical safety assessments are insufficient.

In addition, the effects of noise and low-frequency vibration from wind power generation on human health are beginning to be reported. Wind turbines installed in areas rich in nature have become a complicated presence for local residents as the presence of noise deprives them of tranquility as well as changes the landscape.

The expansion of renewable energy is often seen as a good thing, but there is certainly a shadow behind the light. If we seek sustainability, we need to seriously confront the friction with "nature to be sustained" that such expansion causes. If we are to open up the future with the help of nature, we must not harm that nature. The wisdom to live with the wind is needed in the technology to control it.

Related information

The Ministry of the Environment has published a "Technical Guide for Environmental Impact Assessment Methodology for Offshore Wind Power Plants," which explains the need for careful pre- and post-assessment studies on the effects of noise, birds, marine life, and landscape. WWF Japan is also concerned about the impact of wind power generation on wild birds and marine ecosystems, and argues that the introduction of wind power should focus on minimizing the burden on the natural environment. WWF Japan is also concerned about the impact of wind power on wild birds and marine ecosystems.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) presented materials on the procedures for environmental impact assessments, emphasizing the importance of future institutional development in light of the current inadequate system for investigation and verification. The Nature Conservation Society of Japan also advocates the need for site selection based on scientific evidence to ensure that the location of wind power generation facilities does not adversely affect the ecosystem.

These are important guideposts for those seeking to understand the lights and shadows of wind power generation and how to deal with the environment in a prudent manner.