Study warns offshore wind structures leach hazardous metals into marine environment

[rangerrebew]

Study warns offshore wind structures leach hazardous metals into marine environment
Credit:  by Oliver McBride | Aug 14, 2025 | thefishingdaily.com ~~
 

A new peer-reviewed study has warned that the rapid expansion of offshore wind farms could be releasing significant quantities of hazardous metals into marine ecosystems, with potential long-term consequences for seabed health and marine species.

The research, published in Marine Pollution Bulletin and conducted by scientists from Bangor University, Imperial College London, and other institutions, examined how materials used in offshore wind infrastructure – including antifouling coatings, galvanic anodes, and corrosion protection systems – leach metals such as copper, zinc, and aluminium into surrounding waters.

The paper notes: “Metals such as copper and zinc are well known for their toxicity to marine invertebrates and fish, with sublethal effects occurring at concentrations only slightly above background.” The authors warn that the expansion of offshore wind without fully accounting for these emissions could pose “a significant chemical pressure on marine ecosystems”.

Large-Scale Release of Contaminants

https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2025/08/16/study-warns-offshore-wind-structures-leach-hazardous-metals-into-marine-environment/

[Smokin Joe]

Not the hill to die on, IMHO. Every vessel out there does much the same. Zinc has long been used to provide 'sacrifice' metals and ward off corrosion in more vital parts, and copper sheathing was used to thwart shipworms and other biota buildup or damage to wooden hulls, even when the ships were powered by sail (or even slaves with oars)..

Structures from bridges to buoys all will have similar metallic signatures.

[rangerrebew]

When we would go into Hong Kong, local contractors would come along side with long handle roller brushes and paint over the accumulated rust for several days.  That was how we handled the problem.

[Fishrrman]

"A new peer-reviewed study has warned that the rapid expansion of offshore wind farms could be releasing significant quantities of hazardous metals into marine ecosystems, with potential long-term consequences for seabed health and marine species."

"Clean" energy....

Heh...