More than 2000 renewable energy facilities are built in areas of environmental significance and threaten the natural habitats of plant and animal species across the globe.
More than 2000 renewable energy facilities are built in areas of environmental significance and threaten the natural habitats of plant and animal species across the globe.
A University of Queensland research team mapped the location of solar, wind and hydropower facilities in wilderness, protected areas and key biodiversity areas.
UQ School of Earth and Environmental Sciences lead author Mr José Rehbein said he was alarmed by the findings.
“Aside from the more than 2200 renewable energy facilities already operating inside important biodiversity areas, another 900 are currently being built,” Mr Rehbein said.
“Energy facilities and the infrastructure around them, such as roads and increased human activity, can be incredibly damaging to the natural environment.
The majority of renewable energy facilities in western Europe and developed nations are located in biodiverse areas.
Read more at University Of Queensland
Image: Guanacos in Chilean Patagonia. One of the last remaining wilderness areas left in the region. Image Credit: Francisca Hidalgo
