Wingspan 2024: Partnerships for a bird-friendly energy transition

The three-day event brought together conservationists, scientists, grid operators, renewable developers, and policymakers to share strategies for protecting biodiversity while expanding renewable energy infrastructure.

Key topics included the impact of energy development on birds and international conservation efforts, with discussions rooted in LIFE-funded projects like SafeLines4Birds, LIFE EUROKITE, and LIFE Great Bustard. The event featured expert presentations, networking opportunities, and optional activities like workshops and field trips.

Find the full agenda here.

About the LIFE projects:

SafeLines4Birds aims to reduce bird mortality from power lines in France, Belgium, and Portugal, focusing on 13 vulnerable species. The initiative will retrofit dangerous poles, install beacons, and test new anti-collision systems to prevent collisions and electrocutions. Additionally, maintenance practices will be adjusted using drones and timing around breeding seasons to minimise disturbances. 

LIFE EUROKITE aims to reduce red kite mortality in the EU, focusing on poisoning, electrocution, and collisions with human infrastructure. It will use telemetry to identify key threats and take action against illegal persecution and dangerous power lines.  

LIFE Great Bustard aims to reduce great bustard collisions with power lines, continue habitat management, and decrease predation. It focuses on cross-border conservation efforts between Austria and Hungary, boosting public awareness through media, and emphasising an integrated conservation approach in Natura 2000 sites. The project also addresses remaining dangerous overhead power lines that threaten the species.