Creation Covenant Alliance

Inaugural OEEC Offshore Energy Event Featuring Nature Enhancement Content Program and Exhibition Pavilion

The Netherlands leads in integrating nature enhancement in offshore energy, spotlighted at OEEC 2024's program.
OEEC First Offshore Energy Event with Dedicated Nature Enhancement Content Programme, Exhibition Pavilion

The Netherlands is at the forefront of integrating nature enhancement requirements in offshore wind energy tenders. The Offshore Energy Exhibition & Conference (OEEC) is spotlighting this initiative, featuring nature enhancement prominently in its program and exhibition.

In this article:

  • Ørsted, The Rich North Sea, and the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture discuss nature enhancement

  • Ecowende and Waardenburg Ecology exhibit at the Nature Enhancement Pavilion

OEEC 2023 Marjolein Kelder from The Rich North Sea at the panel session Offshore energy Business for the better Photo Navingo

Discussions on biodiversity protection, both terrestrial and marine, have been part of the OEEC. This year, organizer Navingo is emphasizing nature enhancement.

The Dutch Government’s tender procedures now include nature enhancement, with the offshore energy industry incorporating nature-friendly designs. The supply chain, along with project owners, is involved.

On the first day of OEEC 2024, Jeroen Vis from the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Nature will unveil a new programme, Nature Regeneration North Sea, aiming to create a resilient North Sea for sustainable use. (Conference Area, Hall 2, 26 November, 15:30 – 16:15.)

Interested in the Nature Enhancement pavilion and sessions? Get OEEC 2024 tickets on the Tickets page!

In 2022, Marjolein Kelder, Senior Project Manager at The Rich North Sea, emphasized the need for positive environmental impacts beyond avoiding negative effects.

Kelder stated that achieving no negative impact is insufficient. “We need to aim for positive impacts using passive or active nature enhancement measures.”

Last year, Marjolein Kelder participated in a panel on nature enhancement and net-zero targets.

At OEEC 2024, Ørsted’s Senior Marine Ecology Specialist, Karin Bilo, and Marjolein Kelder will review the Rich North Sea programme’s achievements. (The Stage, 26 November, 11:00 – 11:25.)

Following this, Natuur & Milieu will present North Sea Vision 2040, developed with the North Sea Foundation, WWF, and Birdlife Netherlands. (The Stage, 26 November, 11:30 – 11:55.)

The exhibition features a Nature Enhancement Pavilion in Hall 2, showcasing biodiversity solutions from industry leaders like Ecowende, developer of the 760 MW wind farm at Hollandse Kust West VI.

Ecowende, backed by Shell, Chubu Electric Power, and Eneco, aims to build a wind farm with minimal impact on wildlife.

In 2023, Ecowende partnered with Waardenburg Ecology to create an ecological programme for their wind farm. Waardenburg Ecology will also feature in the pavilion.

Van Oord, contracted to build the offshore wind farm is among the OEEC 2024 exhibitors.

To explore the Offshore Energy Exhibition & Conference 2024 program, visit the Program page and view exhibitors on the Floor Plan page.

Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz

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COP29 Ends Amidst Criticism Over Loopholes and Disunity


The United Nations’ 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) concluded with widespread criticism over perceived loopholes and a lack of unity among participating nations. Environmental experts and activists expressed concerns that the agreements reached may be insufficient to address the escalating climate crisis.



Despite initial optimism, the conference, held in Bonn, Germany, was marked by intense debates and disagreements. Key issues included carbon emission reduction targets and financial commitments to developing countries. Many attendees felt these discussions fell short of meaningful progress. Learn more about the UN’s climate change efforts here.



A significant point of contention was the establishment of clear guidelines for monitoring and reporting emissions. Critics argue that the absence of stringent measures allows countries to exploit loopholes, undermining global efforts to curb climate change. The lack of consensus on this issue highlights the challenges in achieving cohesive international action.



Some developing nations voiced frustration over inadequate financial support from wealthier countries, which they argue is essential for implementing sustainable practices and mitigating climate impacts. This financial gap remains a major obstacle, fueling discontent and hampering collaborative efforts. Explore the Green Climate Fund’s role in supporting climate action.



Meanwhile, environmental groups emphasized the need for immediate and robust action, warning that delays could have catastrophic implications. They called for greater transparency and accountability in future agreements, urging nations to prioritize the planet’s health over economic interests.



As COP29 ends, the international community faces the challenge of bridging divides and enhancing cooperation to effectively combat climate change. Stakeholders are now looking ahead to future conferences, hoping for more decisive action and unity.

November 22, 2024

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024