OECD Green Talks LIVE: Mainstreaming Biodiversity into Renewable Energy Infrastructure

As countries scale up climate action, they face the challenge of expanding renewable power while tackling biodiversity loss. Transitioning away from fossil fuels can reduce climate-related pressure on biodiversity but brings its own risks. If not carefully managed, the increase in renewable power infrastructure could undermine efforts to halt and reverse biodiversity loss.

How does renewable power infrastructure impact biodiversity? How can countries plan a power sector transition that aligns with both climate and biodiversity goals? What policy instruments can guide the renewable power industry to mitigate adverse impacts and seek positive outcomes for biodiversity?

OECD Biodiversity Analyst and author Edward Perry presented key findings and recommendations from the report and was joined by panellists Mona Khalil from the US. Geological Service and Floor Kleemans from the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality, Netherlands, to discuss how to protect biodiversity as we scale up renewable power. The webinar was moderated by Kumi Kitamori, Deputy Director of the OECD Environment Directorate. 

The report synthesises evidence on biodiversity impacts from renewable power infrastructure, with a focus on solar power, wind power and powerlines. Drawing on good practice insights from across the globe, it offers governments recommendations for mainstreaming biodiversity into power sector planning and policy.