Abstract
The Marine Renewable Energy Strategic Framework for Wales (MRESF) is seeking to provide for the sustainable development of marine renewable energy in Welsh waters. As one of the recommendations from the Stage 1 study, a requirement for further evaluation of potential environmental impacts on marine mammals from marine renewable devices was identified. This report summarises information on marine mammals that frequent those areas within Welsh waters with high tidal currents identified as likely candidate sites for tidal turbine installations. The types of devices that are being developed are briefly reviewed and an assessment of the range of potential hazards that these could pose for marine mammals is made. Particular emphasis is placed on collision risk, which is considered to be one of the most significant hazards. Physical, biological and behavioural factors that might affect the probability and severity of collisions are reviewed and comments are offered on the likely sensitivity of different species and regions. Potential strategies for mitigation and knowledge gaps that need to be addressed are also discussed.
The Approach to Sustainable Development Report presents the final outputs of the Marine Renewable Energy Strategic Framework (MRESF). The MRESF will be an essential management tool for the sustainable development of wave and tidal energy in Wales.