Renewable energy versus the environment
The battle lines are being drawn on the Greek island of Skyros. The battle has started. The residents of this little island have taken a stand against the developers of one of the world’s largest wind farms. With pressure mounting from the EU for Greece to increase its renewable energy production, the local population will have little chance of stopping the proposed wind farm. The EU is offering millions of Euros in grants to the developers and the potential profit margins are incredibly high, making it even harder for the local people to fight against the wind farm. There will be 100 wind turbines, new access roads and supply line cables on the uninhabited side of the island. Uninhabited by humans that is, the area is home to the wild horses of Skyros and to many species of birds.
This type of conflict will be replayed in many other parts of Europe as the developers see the potential for profit in renewable energy. What price are we prepared to pay for renewable energy? Are we prepared to see our natural environment and the supported wildlife destroyed by massive wind farms? Is it not a hollow victory if we reduce greenhouse gas emissions to save the planet by destroying the environment and wildlife?
