Abstract
There is currently no strategic feedback mechanism or requirement for data collected during post-consent monitoring (PCM) to be integrated into assessments. Using these data effectively could help reduce uncertainty in the consenting process, which is crucial in the context of both cumulative and future projectbased assessments.
Within the context of ornithology, the scope of the synthesis of evidence report is to identify barriers and potential solutions to using post-consent monitoring data, characterise the tools and approaches that are currently available to incorporate post-consent monitoring data into the assessment process in the context of cumulative and future project-based assessments, and consider requirements for future data collection.
The approach focuses on identifying procedural and scientific barriers that prevent effective data use and developing potential solutions to bridge this gap. Through an interdisciplinary methodology combining a review of policy and processes, stakeholder engagement, and case studies, the research explores the limitations of current PCM practices and potential solutions.
Key activities include evaluating policy and process bottlenecks, analysing scientific and technical challenges using seabird case studies, and engaging stakeholders through semi-structured interviews and a focused group workshop. Future work will produce recommendations and propose a roadmap to facilitate better PCM data use in decision-making.
The synthesis of evidence highlights key barriers and challenges in PCM for offshore developments. A lack of centralised oversight and coordination results in inconsistent data collection, reporting, and accessibility. Resource limitations and unclear governance structures further hinder effective PCM processes. Additionally, data findability remains a significant challenge, with inconsistencies in metadata and storage locations affecting accessibility. While efforts are being made to align data management frameworks, including the expansion in remit of the Marine Data Exchange (MDE), gaps remain in standardisation and the integration of PCM data into impact assessments.
Potential solutions emphasise improved coordination among stakeholders, enhanced data management policies, and investment in expertise and infrastructure. Strengthening governance, establishing clearer reporting requirements, and resourcing dedicated data managers can help improve PCM processes. Additionally, ensuring better integration of PCM data into evidence-based decision-making requires a strategic approach, improved metadata standards, and methodologies for data aggregation. The next phase of this project involves assessing the feasibility and priority of these solutions through stakeholder engagement, leading to the development of targeted recommendations to enhance the use of PCM data in offshore renewable impact assessments and consenting processes.