Are birds and marine life affected by wind farms?

I am an advocate of wind farms even though they may pose effects on the environment and wildlife. While researching the amount of birds per year that are killed from turbines, I came to the conclusion that there are more benefits of having a clean energy source than saving a small number of birds. My research stated that for every 10,000 birds killed by human activities, less than one death is caused by a wind turbine. Out of that 10,000, 5,5o0 birds are killed by flying into buildings and windows. Another 1,000 are killed by cats. Wind turbines do not pose nearly as high of a threat to birds as other man man objects or activities.

Below is a chart comparing the amount of birds killed due to wind turbines to other man man objects:

Source: Erickson, et.al, 2002. Summary of Anthropogenic Causes of Bird Mortality

Wind farms affect marine life as well. This, however, is also not extremely damaging. The foundations of the turbines can be turned into artificial reef where fish can grow and prosper. In one study in Denmark, seals were negatively affected by the pile driving and porpoise populations decreased during construction. Both populations have recovered since the wind farms have been operating.

In my opinion, wind farms are so much more environmentally friendly compared to other energy sources. For example, oil spills can kill so many animals and harm the environment immensely. Coal fired energy emits so many pollutants such as SO2, Mercury, and particulate matter that is very dangerous to human health and the environment. To me, this sounds much more substantial than a turbine killing one to two birds a year.

Citations:
"Clean Energy, Clear Coastal Views." 2009. Blue Water Wind. 27 Jan. 2009.

"Wind Energy and Wildlife: Frequently Asked Questions." 2008. American Wind Energy Association. 27 Jan. 2009.

Wind-Power Politics

I was happy to read that the people of Delaware were in favor of the Bluewater wind energy project. It seems that people are usually so concerned with what the turbines will look like in the area. To me, it seems like there are so many benefits by using wind power that the appearance should not make people against it. It is time that we start using a renewable energy source so that we do not destroy the environment and use up the resources. Also, during our economic crisis, this will be a great opportunity to open up more jobs. I found it interesting that Mandelstam stated that only two years ago, the governor of Delaware would laugh at the thought of wind farms and now the plan is already serious.