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Environmental surveys Developers need to understand the effect that a wind farm may have on the plants and animals that live in and around, or use, the wind farm area. Birds, fish, sea mammals and sea bed life are surveyed by specialist companies using a range of boats and aircraft. Data is collected on the distribution, density, diversity and number of different species. Onshore surveying work also has to take place to establish what impact cable laying and substations may have on the environment. It is also important to understand how people and companies will be affected by the wind farm. Generally, these roles will require environmental and ecology degrees, though some may have more specialist masters or PhD qualifications. Marine ornithologist Among the most important wildlife studies is the survey of bird populations and movements. It is often the first survey work to be done at a wind farm site because the work has to cover all seasons and needs to run for more than one year. Specialist companies can survey the birds from boats but aeroplanes have big advantages as they can cover large areas by taking high definition images for analysis. Bird surveying companies need graduates in marine biology, zoology and environmental science.
Marine ornithologist Among the most important wildlife studies is the survey of bird populations and movements. It is often the first survey work to be done at a wind farm site because the work has to cover all seasons and needs to run for more than one year. Specialist companies can survey the birds from boats but aeroplanes have big advantages as they can cover large areas by taking high definition images for analysis. Bird surveying companies need graduates in marine biology, zoology and environmental science.
Environmental consultant The data collected by surveyors is used by an environmental consultant to write the Environmental Impact Assessment or EIA. The EIA is an extremely important document which looks at the effects on nature conservation sites deemed to be of importance under European Union law. This work is largely office based and involves people with environmental degrees with good analytical and writing skills. There is often a variety of career paths within environmental consultancies with plenty of scope to take on more responsible roles involving looking after a number of projects.
Siemens, Vesta Catapult and Maersk employ a range of people in the wind energy industry, here are some profiles of the jobs they do