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Environmental Compatibility of the Parc Tramuntana Offshore Wind Project in Relation to Marine Ecosystems

Abstract: Parc Tramuntana is the first offshore wind project being promoted in the Catalonian waters, and due to this newness, it has generated a strong social debate surrounding expected environmental and socioeconomic impacts traditionally associated to marine wind farms, as there are no relevant references in this area. The objective of this report is to provide a specific analysis of some of the main potential impacts, based on detailed information and quantitative data, in order to place these impacts in a realistic context and determine their actual magnitude. This analysis is fed by diverse and detailed studies carried out over the last two years to assess the environmental impact of the project, in accordance with current regulations. According to environmental impact assessment, which is based on a standardized methodology, the impact of the project is objectively qualified as MODERATE on vectors such as turbidity and sedimentation, underwater noise, hydrodynamic circulation or the alteration of electromagnetic fields, and NOT SIGNIFICANT on aspects such as the proliferation of invasive exotic species. As this is an ongoing assessment process, this report presents initial conclusions that do not yet address all possible impacts. Nevertheless, the authors stress the importance of framing the debate on offshore wind in Catalonia in the context of the urgency of the climate emergency and its inevitable impacts on the natural environment.

 Fuente: Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, 2022, 10, 898 - (CORRIGENDUM) , 2023, 11, 25

 Publisher: MDPI

 Publication date: 29/06/2022

 No. of pages: 27

 Publication type: Article

 DOI: 10.3390/jmse10070898

 ISSN: 2077-1312

 Publication Url: https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse10070898

Authorship

DIEZ-CABALLERO, KOLDO

TROITEIRO, SILVIA

VIDAL, JUAN RAMÓN

GONZÁLEZ, MARTA

AMETLLER, SERGI

JUAN, RAQUEL