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.
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