Effecten van windturbines op vogels en vleermuizen in Vlaanderen: Leidraad voor risicoanalyse en monitoring

This update guidance report replaces and integrates the publications of Everaert et al. (2011) and Everaert & Peymen (2013). It includes information and recommendations concerning the possible effects of wind turbines on birds and bats in Flanders (northern part of Belgium). The report makes clear what assessment steps can be taken for planned projects and plans of wind farms, and where the necessary information can be found to proceed these steps. Information for monitoring after the construction of the turbines, is also included. The guideline also includes a wind farm vulnerability atlases for birds and bats. The component maps of these atlases can be consulted in a geographical web application via the website of INBO (www.inbo.be – search: ‘risicoatlas windturbines’). In these vulnerability maps, Flanders is divided into areas with a risk gradation of 0 to 3. Based on the available information, the atlases show where and why there is a potential risk for birds and bats when wind turbines should be build in these areas, and what steps (impact analysis) can be taken. The vulnerability atlases for birds and bats have their limitations, but experts can use it as starting points for environmental impact analysis at a local level. The chance of significant impact will play an important part in the final assessment.