California’s wildlife species suffer due to the cost of green energy.
California’s Transition to Green Energy Raises Concerns for Wildlife
As the Golden State accelerates its transition to green energy at full throttle, some experts are expressing apprehension about the potential consequences for wildlife, particularly birds. John Baker, a retired assistant chief of the California Fish and Wildlife Department, warns that the push for green energy, while aimed at combating climate change, may come at the expense of endangering certain animal species.
The Cost to Wildlife
Baker emphasizes that the intense focus on green energy tends to blind people, including politicians, to the negative impact it has on animals. Predatory birds, such as eagles, hawks, and falcons, are especially affected, with many being killed by wind turbines. While the number of predatory bird fatalities may seem small compared to other bird deaths, Baker highlights the significance due to their slow reproductive nature. He cites a 2021 article that estimates approximately 681,000 birds are killed each year in the United States by wind turbines, and this number could be even higher.
Solar Farms and Their Consequences
In addition to wind turbines, solar farms have also been causing harm to wildlife. Birds often mistake the shining solar panels for pools of water and crash into them, resulting in fatal injuries. The extreme heat generated by the panels’ reflective material can also incinerate birds that fly too close. Other land species, such as desert tortoises and bighorn sheep, have lost their habitat and migration corridors due to the proliferation of solar farms.
Accountability and Political Influence
Baker raises concerns about the lack of accountability for wind energy operators when it comes to wildlife loss. Despite the potential legal consequences for harming protected species like bald eagles, operators often go unpunished. He also highlights the preferential treatment given to clean energy during the lawmaking process, where dissenting voices are silenced or funding is cut off. This bias can lead scientists to prioritize the narrative of climate change over the well-being of individual species.
Working Towards Solutions
Despite these challenges, Baker acknowledges that some local agencies have found ways to address the conflicts between green energy and wildlife conservation. However, he emphasizes the need for a more balanced approach that considers the long-term impact on animal populations.
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