The Government has announced new measures to reduce underwater noise pollution during offshore wind construction, to ensure the protection of marine wildlife.
As part of the Plan for Change, operators are now required to use low-noise methods for clearing unexploded ordnance from the seabed, with high-order detonations reserved for exceptional circumstances.
Developers must also demonstrate efforts to minimise noise during turbine installation, with a public consultation planned on setting future noise limits for offshore wind construction.
Marine Minister Emma Hardy said: “As we expand offshore wind to make Britain a clean energy superpower – we need to protect the vulnerable animals of our seas. These new measures support the construction of offshore wind that the UK needs while making sensible changes to stop needless harm to underwater life.”
The initiative addresses concerns about loud explosions and pile driving, which can harm marine species and disrupt fish stocks. It also aims to prevent delays in offshore wind projects set for 2025 onwards.
Actress and campaigner Dame Joanna Lumley praised the measures, saying: “This is a magnificent example of government and industry coming together to embrace technology and challenge the old way of doing things. Our seas and the creatures that call them home, are unbelievably precious.”