Session 2: Clean Energy

 

Reconciling society’s need for clean energy with the sustainable management of aquatic environments presents significant challenges. These include mitigating the impacts of energy infrastructure on biodiversity, addressing pollution, and balancing competing land and water uses. Opportunities lie in advancing renewable energy technologies, promoting ecosystem-based management, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Integrating ecological principles into energy planning can enhance conservation efforts, while innovative solutions to generating energy from natural, renewable sources reduces reliance on fossil fuels and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. 

The Clean Energy session will address the UK's aspirations and targets for Net Zero through a transition to home-grown clean energy options. The session will highlight the main drivers and the science and evidence needed for sustainable management of the marine, coastal, and freshwater environment.