Protecting Marine Life from Underwater Explosions
CISR
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(BBC) The UK government is urging offshore energy firms to avoid using "noisy" detonations to dispose of unexploded ordnance (UXO) on the seabed, aiming to protect marine life. Over 300,000 bombs from the World Wars remain in UK waters and must be cleared for wind farm development. Marine Minister Emma Hardy emphasized using quieter technologies, making high-order detonations a last resort due to their harmful impact on whales, dolphins, and other sea creatures.
Collaborative efforts between the government, Crown Estate, and industry aim to create safer practices. Joanna Lumley of Stop Sea Blasts praised the move as a step toward adopting innovative, less harmful methods. These measures align with the UK’s Plan for Growth, facilitating offshore wind development while safeguarding marine ecosystems.
