New polling commissioned by RSPB Scotland finds widespread support for offshore wind in Scotland, provided developments do not harm wildlife or sensitive habitats.

The nationally representative survey of 1,175 people across Scotland, conducted by Diffley Partnership, shows that more than three-quarters (76%) believe offshore wind farms should only be built where they will not harm nature. While most back renewable energy, 57% said they were concerned about potential impacts on protected seabirds such as puffins, and 79% said they would be more likely to support projects located away from important wildlife sites.

Respondents also signalled clear expectations for stronger mitigation and accountability. A large majority (86%) believe developers should be required to fund measures that protect species if projects result in seabird deaths. In addition, 78% would be more likely to support schemes using technology designed to reduce impacts on seabirds and marine wildlife, and 78% back substantial financial compensation where projects harm protected species.

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RSPB Scotland, which commissioned the polling, is urging the Scottish Government to better balance plans for rapid offshore wind expansion with the country’s global responsibilities to safeguard seabirds.

The research also tested views on Berwick Bank, a contentious offshore wind project proposed off Scotland’s east coast. Owing to its proximity to internationally important seabird colonies, Scottish Government scientists predict it could kill thousands of protected seabirds in its first year alone. Most respondents (60%) said Berwick Bank should proceed only if impacts on wildlife and nature can be significantly reduced, while just 14% said it should go ahead because its renewable energy benefits outweigh the impacts on nature.

Aedan Smith, Head of Policy and Advocacy for RSPB Scotland, said: "These results show people across Scotland support renewable energy, but not at the expense of our most important wildlife.

"People recognise the need for urgent action on climate change, but they also expect offshore wind developments to avoid harming already vulnerable seabird populations and other marine wildlife as much as possible.

"We're currently witnessing a rapid expansion of offshore wind in Scotland, with seabirds paying the price and nowhere near enough investment to ensure their protection and recovery.

"Scotland can lead the way in tackling the climate and nature emergency together. That means developing offshore wind in the right places, reducing impacts on wildlife, and providing significant compensation for any unavoidable harm.

"This polling shows there's widespread support for a balanced approach, delivering renewable energy while protecting the wildlife that helps make Scotland so special. It’s now up the Scottish Government to make that a reality."

The findings come ahead of the expected publication of the Scottish Government’s Sectoral Marine Plan, which aims to identify sustainable options for the future development of offshore wind in Scotland.