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Project title

Vulnerability of pelagic seabirds to the introduction of offshore renewable energy infrastructure off the Irish coast

Primary Funding Agency

Irish Research Council

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University College Cork (UCC)

Lead Applicant

n/a

Project Abstract

With Ireland�s commitment to a substantial reduction of carbon emissions, increased focus has been placed on the expansion of offshore renewable energy infrastructure. Targets for renewable energy have been implemented on both a national and European level, with EU targets of 40% renewable energy production, and Ireland pledging to convert energy production to 70% renewables, all by 2030. Proposed plans for offshore development off the coast of Ireland could present substantial threats to already declining populations of seabirds. Potential impacts include exposure to harmful pollutants during construction and maintenance of windfarms, collision with turbines, or displacement from feeding grounds through avoidance of renewable infrastructure. This project aims to quantify the potential impacts of wind farms to vulnerable seabird species, including gulls and gannets. Vulnerability to threats associated with wind farm development will be examined by determining foraging range and distribution, and potential changes in populations can be predicted based on their vulnerability to encountered threats. The risk of such encounters will be estimated based on fine scale behaviour from telemetry data. Chemical constituents of seabird feathers will be examined to determine if exposure to persistent organic pollutants and heavy metals increases during construction and maintenance of offshore wind farms. Stress levels associated with physiological condition will also be determined by measuring hormones in feather and blood samples. Links between pollutants and stress levels with foraging ecology will be explored to determine the physiological effects on populations.

Grant Approved

�110,000.00

Research Hub

n/a

Research Theme

Carbon Stocks, GHG Emissions, Sinks and Management Options

Start Date

01/09/2022

Initial Projected Completion Date

31/08/2026