Floating Offshore Wind Farms in Mediterranean Marine Protected Areas

This research article critically reviews the development of offshore wind energy in relation to Mediterranean Natura 2000 sites and other marine protected areas (MPAs), focusing on the western Mediterranean as a case study. The article outlines the context of MPA policy concerning offshore wind farm (OWF) development, summarizing the potential impacts of OWFs on EU-protected habitats and species. It assesses the interactions between OWFs and Natura 2000 sites, proposing recommendations for the placement of OWFs to minimize ecological disruption. The study emphasizes the importance of placing OWFs outside of Natura 2000 sites and their buffer zones, advocating for rigorous Appropriate Assessments for proposed OWF projects. The article also discusses the legal frameworks governing OWF development in relation to biodiversity conservation, highlighting the obligations of EU member states under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive and the Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. The findings aim to guide future ecological research and policy decisions regarding offshore wind energy in the Mediterranean region.