Understanding the seafloor is the foundation of responsible offshore development. We begin by mapping the seabed using high-resolution side-scan sonar to identify habitat types and geological features.

To ensure scientific accuracy, we select 20 sampling stations within the wind farm area and 20 in a nearby reference zone with similar seabed conditions. At each of these 40 stations, we collect sediment and biological samples using a Van Veen grab. These samples help us assess the health and diversity of benthic communities, ensuring minimal disruption to marine ecosystems.

Protecting marine mammals is a top priority. We use passive acoustic monitoring to detect species such as porpoises and dolphins. Specialized click detectors, securely anchored to the seabed, record echolocation sounds made by these animals.

This non-invasive method allows us to track their presence and migration routes over time, helping us plan construction activities to avoid sensitive periods and habitats.

Our environmental monitoring extends above the waterline. Expert observers conduct visual surveys from both ships and aircraft, following systematic transects across the project area.

Onboard our vessels, trained ornithologists and marine mammal specialists work from wind-protected observation stations, known as “Orniboxes,” to record sightings. These observations provide valuable data on species abundance, behavior, and seasonal patterns.

Migratory species are particularly sensitive to offshore infrastructure. To monitor bird migration, we deploy radar systems on anchored vessels. While radar tracks flight paths and densities, species identification is carried out by ornithologists through:

• Daytime visual observations
• Nighttime acoustic monitoring of bird calls

In the Baltic Sea, we also monitor bat migration using ultrasonic detectors. These devices capture high-frequency calls, helping us understand bat activity over open water and implement protective measures where needed.