Wind Farms or Oil Drilling, Which is Truly Better for Wildlife?

Energy production’s toll on wildlife has sparked a heated debate, especially in light of US plans to scale back wind power and ramp up oil drilling.

Originally reported by BBC Future Planet writer Sophie Hardach, scientists warn that while wind turbines do come with risks—like bird collisions and temporary noise during construction—fossil fuels pose far more severe long-term threats to wildlife and the planet.

Researchers at the University of California, Santa Cruz, noticed that seabirds suffer not only when turbines are poorly sited but also when Climate change, driven by fossil fuels, depletes their food sources.

Meanwhile, scientists in Scotland highlight how offshore wind farms can be built faster than other alternatives, creating a cleaner energy source that helps curb greenhouse gas emissions. For creatures like seals, wind farms have even become feeding grounds thanks to the influx of fish around turbine foundations.

In contrast, oil drilling can be devastating for marine life. Dolphins off the Gulf of Mexico still show signs of chronic lung and heart issues linked to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon spill, according to research from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Seismic airgun blasts used to locate oil pockets reverberate across entire regions, making it difficult for whales and dolphins to forage and communicate.

Though wind farm construction also generates noise, experts say it’s more contained and short-lived compared to the constant sonic barrage from oil surveys.

To protect birds, whales, and other species, ecologists recommend smarter siting of wind farms and mitigation measures like bubble curtains to reduce construction noise. Oil extraction, even with precautions, remains bound to spills, leaks, and the largest contributor to climate change.

Call to Action

With mounting evidence that Climate change affects every corner of the wild, it’s time for us to champion cleaner, kinder energy solutions.

Consider supporting wind projects that follow responsible guidelines and opposing further reliance on oil drilling that harms our oceans, air, and ecosystems.

This article by Nicholas Vincent was first published by One Green Planet on 4 February 2025. Lead Image: Image Credit :Roschetzky Photography/Shutterstock.

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