Defenders in Action: Getting Renewables Right
To reduce greenhouse gas emissions, we need renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. At the same time, large renewable projects, which may cover thousands of acres, must be developed in ways that don’t sacrifice wild places, rare species, or ecosystem functions. We call this approach “smart from the start.” Defenders monitors renewable energy projects in the Southwest and makes sure that they work for people and wildlife.
How We’re Helping
- Defenders is a member of the Arizona Solar Working Group, a collaborative of conservationists and solar industry representatives. The Group is studying Bureau of Land Management lands, state trust lands, and private lands in order to identify sites for large-scale solar development that have minimal conflicts with wildlife and treasured landscapes.
- We also analyze solar, wind, and transmission projects in the Southwest, and works with alternative energy companies and public agencies to make sure that projects are developed in ways that minimize negative effects on public lands and wildlife.