Researchers at Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML), alongside colleagues at the University of Aberdeen, found that the majority of UK fishermen feel their livelihoods are being threatened by the rapid expansion of offshore
Researchers at Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML), alongside colleagues at the University of Aberdeen, found that the majority of UK fishermen feel their livelihoods are being threatened by the rapid expansion of offshore wind farms (OWFs), with impacts felt across all vessel sizes and fleet sectors.
The study reveals that while the UK leads globally in offshore wind energy production, providing 45% of European capacity and 24% of global capacity, this growth is creating significant spatial conflicts with the commercial fishing industry as both sectors compete for limited marine space.
Key findings:
- Fishermen are being adversely impacted by displacement from offshore wind farms
- Mobile and static gears are affected with small (<15m) vessels less resilient to impacts
- There is a lack of standardization in compensation payments made to fishermen
- Fishermen are concerned about ecological impacts on target species and habitats
- Best practice guidelines for industry need to be embedded in legal frameworks.
"Our survey revealed that fishermen across all fleet sectors are experiencing social, wellbeing, and economic impacts from offshore wind developments," said Claire Szostek, lead author on the paper. "While a small minority identified potential benefits, most fishermen feel their fishing grounds and livelihoods are under threat. What’s particularly concerning is the lack of
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