Digital Aerial Surveys Deliver Critical Data for Marine Bird Protection in The Wash
APEM Ltd, part of APEM Group, was commissioned by Natural England, via the Monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) facility managed...
APEM Group - Case Study
In a partnership to support sustainable offshore wind development, APEM Group and Flotation Energy have completed a series of 24 monthly Digital Aerial Surveys (DAS) for offshore wind farm sites in Irish waters.
Project Overview
The expansion of offshore renewable energy infrastructure in Ireland necessitates a rigorous understanding of the marine environment. Recognising this, APEM Ltd., part of APEM Group, conducted DAS to collect high-resolution baseline data on seabirds and marine megafauna over 24 months. These survey programmes represent a critical phase in a broader environmental data collection programme aimed at informing the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process for Flotation Energy’s proposed offshore wind farms.
Project Context
DAS is a non-intrusive survey method that enables consistent, high-coverage data acquisition across large marine areas. The surveys support the consenting process for offshore wind development by providing robust ecological data that can be integrated into formal EIA documentation.
Key Stats and Methodology
Key features of the methodology included:
- Monthly surveys across defined geographic zones
- Standardised data capture protocols to ensure consistency
- High-resolution digital still imagery to identify species and behavioural patterns
The data collected enabled the identification of:
- Key species present in the area
- Spatial distribution patterns relevant to proposed infrastructure sites
- Seasonal trends in species abundance and activity
These insights were incorporated in reports, which are then integrated into formal EIA documentation, supporting the consenting process and ensuring that marine biodiversity is considered throughout project planning.
Project Challenges
The project required sustained coordination over two years, with monthly data collection across geographically distinct sites. Ensuring consistency in data quality and adherence to standardised protocols across all surveys was essential to the success of the programme. The need to capture seasonal variation in species presence and behaviour added further complexity to the survey design and execution.
Solution
The successful delivery of 24 surveys marks the culmination of a two-year collaborative effort between APEM and Flotation Energy. Throughout the project, both organisations demonstrated a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and the responsible development of renewable energy.
Collaboration Sets a Benchmark for Responsible Offshore Wind Development
The partnership serves as a model for industry collaboration in Ireland, combining technical expertise with strategic vision. As the offshore wind sector in Ireland grows, both APEM and Flotation Energy are committed to continuing their cooperation to support environmentally responsible development. DAS surveys illustrate the value of integrating advanced survey technology with collaborative environmental planning. By proactively gathering comprehensive baseline data, APEM and Flotation Energy are setting a standard for best practices in offshore wind development and balancing energy goals with the need to protect marine ecosystems.
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Barrie McMullin, Project Manager, Flotation Energy Limited, said:
“Our commitment to environmental responsibility is a fundamental priority. The results of two years of aerial surveys and subsequent assessments are essential to inform offshore windfarm design for potential projects.
The precise gathering of aerial survey information and its effective application will also contribute significantly to Ireland’s energy transition and sustainable energy future by ensuring that impacts on marine species are effectively considered in the consenting process.”
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