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Examining closely: is it possible for right whales and offshore wind

Patrick Flanary discusses the coexistence of offshore wind developments and critically endangered right whales in the same waters, prompting the question of their safety together. CAI’s Eve Zuckoff, after months of speaking with scientists and dispelling misinformation, offers insights on this matter.

Examining closely: is it possible for right whales and offshore wind

Patrick Flanary mentions ongoing research efforts aimed at comprehensively understanding the risks associated with offshore wind projects. However, he expresses concern over the proliferation of misinformation online regarding the alleged threat of offshore wind to right whales. Eve Zuckoff discusses the emergence of grassroots groups opposing offshore wind developments due to purported whale-related concerns. Notably, she references Nantucket Residents for Whales, formerly known as Nantucket Residents Against Turbines, as one of these groups involved in legal battles against offshore wind initiatives.

Zuckoff highlights a study by researchers from Brown University, which identified connections between these local groups and larger think tanks and conservative donors known for obstructing climate policies in favor of fossil fuels. She underscores that while some local groups may not be aware of broader strategies, evidence suggests coordination from centralized think tanks.

Moreover, Zuckoff underscores the detrimental impact of climate change on right whales, noting their reliance on copepods for food and how warming waters have led to shifts in copepod distribution, exposing whales to increased risks from boat collisions and entanglement. She emphasizes the urgency of mitigating the adverse effects of climate change to prevent further displacement and harm to right whales.

Patrick Flanary highlights Vineyard Wind’s construction of 62 turbines south of Martha’s Vineyard, each towering as high as the Eiffel Tower, with more projects planned. He questions the implications for right whales. In response, Eve Zuckoff outlines four primary concerns regarding the impact on right whales, emphasizing their dwindling population of around 360 individuals worldwide.

The first concern relates to the increased presence of boats around offshore wind farms, heightening the risk of ship strikes. Additionally, there’s a potential for whales to become entangled in marine debris from these projects. Another worry pertains to the possible alteration of ocean circulation patterns affecting copepods, a staple food source for right whales. Lastly, noise pollution during construction, particularly from pile driving to anchor turbines, could lead to hearing impairment, disrupt communication, induce stress, and alter behavior in right whales.

However, ongoing research is addressing these concerns. Despite the risks, no fatalities among right whales have been attributed to offshore wind activities, as stated by NOAA. This holds true even with the completion of major projects like South Fork Wind and Block Island Wind, along with the ongoing construction of Vineyard Wind.

Patrick Flanary mentions ongoing research efforts aimed at comprehensively understanding the risks associated with offshore wind projects. However, he expresses concern over the proliferation of misinformation online regarding the alleged threat of offshore wind to right whales. Eve Zuckoff discusses the emergence of grassroots groups opposing offshore wind developments due to purported whale-related concerns. Notably, she references Nantucket Residents for Whales, formerly known as Nantucket Residents Against Turbines, as one of these groups involved in legal battles against offshore wind initiatives.

Zuckoff highlights a study by researchers from Brown University, which identified connections between these local groups and larger think tanks and conservative donors known for obstructing climate policies in favor of fossil fuels. She underscores that while some local groups may not be aware of broader strategies, evidence suggests coordination from centralized think tanks.

Moreover, Zuckoff underscores the detrimental impact of climate change on right whales, noting their reliance on copepods for food and how warming waters have led to shifts in copepod distribution, exposing whales to increased risks from boat collisions and entanglement. She emphasizes the urgency of mitigating the adverse effects of climate change to prevent further displacement and harm to right whales.

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