(WO) — The offshore power trade is taking a major step towards understanding and defending endangered seabirds with the launch of the Offshore Nesting Bird Census (ONBC).
Spearheaded by Dr. MacNeill Ferguson, an ecological specialist from power consultants Xodus, the census goals to make clear how these birds make the most of oil and gasoline platforms for nesting and elevating chicks.
Scheduled for June 2024, the ONBC will present essential information on the geographic distribution and utilization patterns of those unconventional breeding websites. This initiative, supported by the federal government’s Joint Nature Conservation Committee, is welcomed by the trade because it seeks to handle issues concerning the declining populations of species like kittiwakes, razorbills, guillemots, herring gulls, and carrion crows.
The census holds specific significance as a lot of the North Sea’s oil and gasoline infrastructure undergoes decommissioning. By offering up-to-date data on sea hen habits, the survey will inform decision-making processes throughout decommissioning, guaranteeing minimal disturbance to nesting birds as required by regulation.
Caroline Brown, Environment Manager at Offshore Energies, expressed enthusiasm for the ONBC, emphasizing its potential to turn out to be an annual train. She highlighted the significance of understanding nesting habits to guard declining seabird populations.
Dr. MacNeill Ferguson emphasised the collaborative alternative for operators, stressing the advantages of sharing ecological information for knowledgeable decision-making and ecological conservation within the North Sea.
To have interaction stakeholders additional, a stay Q&A session with Dr. MacNeill Ferguson will take place on May eighth, 2024, from 12:00 to 12:45, in collaboration with the E-Reps Network. This interactive session will present insights into the census methodology, targets, and the importance of defending offshore nesting websites.
