Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002373/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Mélanie Disdier (PfE), Hans Neuhoff (ESN), Alexander Sell (ESN), António Tânger Corrêa (PfE), Jan-Peter Warnke (NI), Rody Tolassy (PfE), Jean-Paul Garraud (PfE), Marie Dauchy (PfE), Virginie Joron (PfE), Anne-Sophie Frigout (PfE), Pierre Pimpie (PfE), Fernand Kartheiser (NI)
Under the Birds Directive (2009/147/EC), the killing or disturbance of protected species, as well as the degradation of their habitats, is strictly prohibited, in particular in Natura 2000 areas. However, the planned wind farm off the coast at Dunkirk, located in a Natura 2000 area, is raising concerns about its impact on protected species, such as seabirds and migratory birds[1].
The decision to temporarily cease operating the Aumelas wind farm in Hérault[2], taken in order to protect endangered species, serves as a reminder that preserving biodiversity takes precedence over industrial projects, in accordance with EU law.
- 1.Can the Commission confirm that the construction of the wind farm off the coast at Dunkirk fully complies with the obligations of the Birds Directive, in particular with regard to the assessment of the impact on protected species?
- 2.What specific steps does the Commission intend to take to prevent the disturbance or destruction of bird habitats in this Natura 2000 area?
- 3.How does the Commission ensure that the protective measures within the framework of this project are implemented and monitored?
Submitted: 12.6.2025
- [1] https://bancsdesflandres.n2000.fr/bancs-des-flandres/le-site-natura-2000-bancs-des-flandres/le-perimetre-du-site
- [2] https://www.franceinfo.fr/environnement/biodiversite/animaux/la-justice-ordonne-l-arret-pour-quatre-mois-du-parc-eolien-d-aumelas-dans-l-herault-apres-la-mort-de-160-oiseaux-proteges_7175883.html