Assessing the potential impacts of floating Offshore Wind Farms on policy-relevant species: A case study in the Gulf of Roses, NW Mediterranean

Abstract

Our study investigates for the first time how floating Offshore Wind Farms (OWFs) technologies could impact policy-relevant Mediterranean species, focusing on planned OWFs in the Cape Creus/Gulf of Roses (Spain, NW Mediterranean). Using the Generalized Impact Assessment framework, we identified pressure on diverse taxonomic groups. Our species selection prioritized species under European policy (Birds and Habitats Directives) and international/local conventions protecting flora and fauna, as they are vital biodiversity indicators. Our analysis identified 135 policy-relevant species susceptible to OWF-induced stressors, notably marine mammals, seabirds, elasmobranchs, and benthic macroinvertebrates at the highest risk. Among the different stressors, noise and vibration, along with habitat loss, pose the greatest potential impacts. While decarbonizing energy production is crucial for addressing climate change, preserving ocean biodiversity is equally vital. Our study pioneers the assessment of emerging OWFs potential impacts on Mediterranean species, offering valuable insights for decision-makers during OWF planning