Nature Advisory pioneered the assessment and monitoring of terrestrial wind farm impacts on biodiversity and now has over 20 years’ experience in this industry. We have assessed impacts at over 150 wind farm projects across Australia and monitored impacts on birds and bats at over 25 operating wind farms. We are one of the Australia’s leading ecological consulting teams and an outright technical leader in impact assessments for wind farms.
Through this work, our team has developed a deep understanding of the impacts of wind farms on wildlife and of the monitoring and mitigation methods appropriate to such projects. In addition, we have a clear understanding of decision-makers’ and regulators’ requirements for robust biodiversity information.
Offshore wind energy is an emerging industry in Australia, with the first feasibility licences granted in 2024. The mandatory environmental impact assessments require robust scientific surveys to be conducted at sea, which is challenging. To better service our clients in this sector, Nature Advisory has made significant investments in building our in-house capabilities and establishing key partnerships. Our team includes seabird and marine mammal experts and we have strong partnerships with aerial survey and statistical consultants including HiDef and Symbolix. This enables us to provide a top-class team for assessing the environmental impacts of offshore wind farms. Nature Advisory can:
- Assess the risks and impacts of offshore wind projects on marine fauna (particularly seabirds and marine mammals) at offshore licence areas
- Undertake boat-based and aerial surveys of seabirds, marine mammals and turtles
- Map areas of high marine fauna activity
- Interpret the findings according to state and Commonwealth legislation
- Estimate bird mortality using the latest collision risk models.
- Prepare assessments and reports that address the requirements of decision-makers and regulators.
In addition, our team of highly experienced terrestrial ecologists can undertake detailed biodiversity assessments for the land-based elements of offshore wind farm projects, including shore crossings, underground and overhead transmission lines, and substation and terminal sites. Nature Advisory has already successfully completed several offshore and onshore surveys related to offshore wind farm sites.
Nature Advisory brings a refreshing approach to project assessment that combines the robust scientific investigation required to inform decision-makers while considering the commercial and compliance concerns of clients. Contact one of our offshore team for early advice on your project’s potential biodiversity issues and assessment requirements:
Dr John Gibbens johng@natureadvisory.com.au
Bernard O’Callaghan bernard@natureadvisory.com.au
Ph (03) 9815 2111
