The Greek Ministry of Energy and Environment has revoked environmental permits for three wind projects in the Thrace region following an appeal by three environmental organizations. These groups are now calling on the Ministry to halt all wind farm projects in areas affected by the devastating wildfires of 2023, as well as in nearby regions, to safeguard endangered bird populations.
The appeal argued that the environmental impact assessments (EIAs) for the wind farms were based on outdated and insufficient data, which did not take into account the catastrophic effects of the 2023 wildfires. According to the organizations, the assessments failed to properly consider the environmental consequences of the fires, both in the burned areas and in surrounding regions that remain ecologically vulnerable.
The permits for the wind projects were issued by local authorities in August 2024, despite receiving negative feedback from the management bodies of the Evros Delta and Dadia National Parks. The approvals were granted based on a positive assessment from the Ministry’s natural environment and biodiversity sector. However, the Ministry now acknowledges the need to revise its evaluation process for such projects, emphasizing the importance of considering the impacts of wildfires on both burned and unburned areas, as well as consulting with relevant stakeholders on projects that could have significant effects on biodiversity.
Environmental organizations are now urging the Ministry to suspend all permits for wind farm projects in burned areas and extend the suspension to neighboring regions that are crucial for the conservation of vulnerable bird species.
