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Publication
Applicability of the “Frame of Reference" approach for environmental monitoring of offshore renewable energy projects
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Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
This paper assesses the applicability of the Frame of Reference (FoR) approach for the environmental
monitoring of large-scale offshore Marine Renewable Energy (MRE) projects. The focus is on projects
harvesting energy from winds, waves and currents. Environmental concerns induced by MRE projects are
reported based on a classification scheme identifying stressors, receptors, effects and impacts. Although
the potential effects of stressors on most receptors are identified, there are large knowledge gaps
regarding the corresponding (positive and negative) impacts. In that context, the development of
offshore MRE requires the implementation of fit-for-purpose monitoring activities aimed at environmental
protection and knowledge development. Taking European legislation as an example, it is suggested
to adopt standardized monitoring protocols for the enhanced usage and utility of environmental
indicators. Towards this objective, the use of the FoR approach is advocated since it provides guidance for
the definition and use of coherent set of environmental state indicators. After a description of this
framework, various examples of applications are provided considering a virtual MRE project located in
European waters. Finally, some conclusions and recommendations are provided for the successful
implementation of the FoR approach and for future studies.
Description
Keywords
Marine renewable energy Large-scale projects Environmental monitoring Environmental indicators Monitoring framework Frame of reference
Citation
Garel, Erwan; Rey, Cibran Camba; Ferreira, Óscar; van Koningsveld, Mark. Applicability of the “Frame of Reference" approach for environmental monitoring of offshore renewable energy projects, Journal of Environmental Management, 141, na, 16-28, 2014.