UK Mandates Quieter Bomb Disposal for Offshore Wind Projects

The UK government has mandated offshore developers, including those involved in wind farm projects, to minimize harmful underwater noise during the disposal of unexploded ordnance (UXO) from World Wars I and II. Under the newly introduced measures as part of the Plan for Change, high-order detonations are to be used only in extraordinary circumstances, while low-noise methods are to be employed by default. Marine Minister Emma Hardy emphasized the need to protect vulnerable marine life from the adverse effects of loud explosions, which can disrupt their behavior and harm species like whales and dolphins. Dame Joanna Lumley, leading the Stop Sea Blasts campaign, praised the decision as a step towards modernizing UXO disposal practices and protecting marine ecosystems. The government is also collaborating with industry experts to develop quieter technologies for bomb clearance. These measures align with the broader goal of accelerating the transition to renewable energy while safeguarding marine environments.