The EU's push for renewable energy is essential to combat climate change, but it must not come at the expense of biodiversity. This post explores how we can accelerate renewable deployment while upholding high environmental standards and fostering synergies with nature protection. The Urgency of Renewables and Biodiversity ProtectionThe climate crisis demands rapid expansion of wind and solar energy. Under the revised Renewable Energy Directive (RED III), the EU aims for at least 42.5% renewables in its energy mix by 2030, with an aspirational 45%. In 2024, renewables made up 47.5% of EU gross electricity consumption, including 38.0% from wind and 23.4% from solar.At the same time, the EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030, aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the Nature Restoration Law (NRL), commits to restoring and protecting ecosystems across land and sea.
Renewables and biodiversity aren't mutually exclusive—they can support each other. However, poor planning could harm habitats and species. Direct climate impacts like habitat shifts are bad enough; mitigation measures shouldn't add to the problem if we overlook synergies.
Key to Success: Smart Planning and GovernanceAchieving a "nature-positive" transition requires:
Recommendations for NGOs and PolicymakersTo advance a fast, fair, and nature-positive energy transition:
Renewables and biodiversity aren't mutually exclusive—they can support each other. However, poor planning could harm habitats and species. Direct climate impacts like habitat shifts are bad enough; mitigation measures shouldn't add to the problem if we overlook synergies.
Key to Success: Smart Planning and GovernanceAchieving a "nature-positive" transition requires:
- Spatial planning: Early sensitivity mapping to identify suitable sites for renewables, grids, and infrastructure.
- Assessments: Strategic environmental assessments with strong public participation.
- Renewables Acceleration Areas (RAAs): Designated zones for faster deployment, balanced with ecological integrity.
- Germany's Offshore Wind Farms: Projects in the North Sea incorporate bird migration corridors and marine protected areas, using tech like bubble curtains to minimize noise pollution on marine life.
- Spain's Solar Parks: In Andalusia, solar installations on degraded lands include biodiversity corridors, native plantings, and grazing programs that enhance local ecosystems.
- Denmark's Wind Energy Islands: Artificial islands for wind turbines are designed with underwater habitats to boost marine biodiversity, turning energy hubs into ecological assets.
- Portugal's Hybrid Renewables: Wind-solar hybrids in rural areas integrate wildlife monitoring and habitat restoration, supporting species like the Iberian lynx.
Recommendations for NGOs and PolicymakersTo advance a fast, fair, and nature-positive energy transition:
- Strengthen EU Guidelines: Mandate biodiversity-inclusive criteria for RAAs and grid expansions.
- National Implementation: Require sensitivity mapping and public consultations in all member states.
- Funding and Incentives: Allocate EU funds for projects that demonstrate biodiversity co-benefits.
- Monitoring and Accountability: Establish independent oversight to track impacts and adapt strategies.
- Community Engagement: Prioritize local host communities' well-being, ensuring equitable benefits.



