Surfers for Climate has thrown its support behind responsible offshore wind energy development. The environmental group, known for its dedication to putting an end to offshore oil & gas projects, has released a comprehensive statement outlining its position on this emerging renewable energy source.
At the heart of their stance is the belief that responsible offshore wind projects can coexist with surfing and marine ecosystems while combating the greatest threat to our oceans: climate change. The organisation emphasises that their support is contingent on projects that “put nature first” and take community concerns into account at every stage.
Surfers for Climate acknowledges the deep connection surfers have with the ocean and recognises the potential for offshore wind to create a new, cleaner legacy for our coastal regions. They argue that properly implemented offshore wind farms could provide a sustainable alternative to the polluting oil and gas industries currently operating in our waters.
Surfers for Climate surveyed their members and worked with experts in Australia’s energy market, renewables and marine science to come to the position of supporting responsible offshore wind done well, because it provides:
1. Huge amounts of clean and reliable renewable energy
2. Energy Security and Diversification
3. Meeting Climate and Energy Targets
4. Responsible Environmental Protection (when done well)
5. Technological Innovation and Cost Competitiveness
6. Job Creation, Economic and Community Benefits
Importantly, Surfers for Climate directly addresses concerns about impacts on marine life, particularly whales. They state that “not a single peer-reviewed study has found that offshore wind farms kill whales” aiming to counter misinformation that has circulated in some communities.
As surfers, we all know that an offshore wind is the one we want the most. With global warming as a very real threat to our coastal way of life and pristine ocean, Surfers for Climate’s believes responsible offshore wind is part of the energy mix we need to be on the party wave of climate action.
Surfers for Climate recognises that there are different opinions in coastal communities about offshore wind and as such promises to take the ‘high-line’ by ensuring that facts, science and reason drive the dialogue.
Read their full statement: https://surfersforclimate.org.au/blogs/surfers-for-climate/responsible-offshore-wind
