A new study published in the Journal of Applied Ecology has highlighted both the benefits and threats to the planet that stems from marine renewable energy. This type of energy, found in wind farms and tidal devices, is becoming increasingly under scrutiny to understand its impact on marine life.

Scientists from the Universities of Exeter and Plymouth are investigating how these renewable energy devices help biodiversity and marine environment. Some man-made structures support a wide variety of fish, becoming artificial reefs.

The study, however, also finds that these devices may cause eco-issues, among them noise, loss of habitat, and electromagnetic fields.

It’s important to understand the effect of this energy on the ocean, and the published paper increases awareness of the possible threats. The team also wants to highlight the importance of finding locations where these strategies can safely be implemented.

This isn’t to say that marine renewable energy is negative; instead, that the research is minimal and it needs to be investigated in order for it to proceed safely.

The paper highlights the need for a close look in this area. More research – and potential positive discoveries – will result in an increase of this use of energy.

The study was done by PRIMaRE (the Peninsula Research Institute for Marine Renewable Energy), a £15 million institute for research in using energy from the sea.

Read the full story at ScienceDaily

Image courtesy of aquamarinepower.com

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