Biodiversity Management in the Wind Power Industry - Examining Regulations, Incentives, and Corporate Practices Influencing Swedish Wind Power Companies

Sammanfattning: The world is transitioning towards a renewable energy system to combat climate change and the wind power industry plays a key role in this shift. However, with the expansion of wind power concerns about its impact on local biodiversity have been raised. This thesis investigates the incentives, regulations, and challenges that are influencing biodiversity management in the wind power industry. Through a literature review, a biodiversity management survey, and a case study on a biodiversity pilot project, the thesis explores emerging opportunities for synergies between wind power expansion and biodiversity conservation and restoration. Key regulatory frameworks, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity and the EU Biodiversity Strategy, which are shaping biodiversity policies that are influencing the wind power industry are discussed. Furthermore, it examines the challenges faced by companies in implementing biodiversity enhancement projects, including time constraints, cost estimations, and regulatory uncertainties. By analysing these findings, this thesis presents information and recommendations for wind power companies to integrate biodiversity management into their operations to improve environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance.