Protection of biodiversity and ecosystems
At BNZ, we integrate biodiversity into our energy projects from the start, ensuring harmony between renewable energy production and local habitats.
A key feature of BNZ’s environmental initiatives is the early incorporation of biodiversity considerations into the design process. Our company undertakes impact assessments to ensure that our projects harmonize with local ecosystems, seamlessly integrating our renewable energy production with the region’s agriculture and presenting a sustainable approach to land use that benefits both energy generation and agricultural practices.
Not to mention the way we understand the vital importance of biodiversity in maintaining ecosystem balance, crucial for life on Earth. Each of our projects undergoes a comprehensive EIA to assess and minimize our ecological footprint. Leveraging advanced technologies and methodologies, we screen ecological changes and pinpoint areas of rich biodiversity.
In this regard, we explore opportunities for reforestation and green corridors at project sites or on land designated by authorities, aiming to reduce or prevent desertification by strengthening the soil with appropriate slopes and drainage systems to mitigate erosion. We also consider planting local, non-invasive flora to promote its expansion, preserving existing root networks and filtering and channeling rainwater to the aquifer.
Nowadays, we manage around 3,000 hectares of land across projects in Portugal, Spain, and Italy under our ISO 14001-based Environmental Management System, and many of them implement compensatory measures from our Environmental Impact Assessments, including biodiversity interventions to support local ecosystems.
Advanced technologies are also used to monitor ecological changes, and our projects with Environmental Surveillance Plans (PVA) adopt necessary mitigation actions. And recently, we have introduced a Tree Management Policy focused on protecting and restoring ecosystems, aiming to prevent biodiversity loss and minimize ecological impacts.
Revolutionizing Renewable Energy in Cádiz, Spain
The Alya and Alamak projects in Alcalá de los Gazules, Cádiz, are setting a new standard in our industry. With a total capacity of 74 MW, these plants will supply clean energy to nearly 25% of Cadiz’s electricity needs and prevent 39,031 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
But this project goes beyond providing renewable energy—it also prioritizes local wildlife and biodiversity. We’ve implemented initiatives such as vegetated walls for ecological connectivity, the planting of native tree species, and the restoration of grazing routes and riverbanks. Additionally, we’re incorporating agrivoltaics, combining solar energy with agriculture to improve soil quality and protect crops, further enhancing sustainability in the region.
Iberian wolves and wildlife, a commitment to conservation
At BNZ, we are managing 697 hectares in regions like Arouca, Monção, Paredes de Coura, and Melgaço to enhance habitat quality and biodiversity. The Armamar solar PV project in Famalicão (northern Portugal) balances renewable energy development with the conservation of Iberian wolves, identified during its Environmental Impact Assessment.
In collaboration with the Association for the Conservation of the Iberian Wolf Habitat (ACHLI), we are also monitoring habitat impacts and have integrated 115 livestock guarding dogs with Grupo Lobo to reduce livestock losses from wolf predation. The company also supports the reintroduction of roe deer to restore predator-prey dynamics and engages local communities through educational programs on the ecological significance of the Iberian wolf.
To promote wildlife conservation, hunting-free zones have been established, and wolf population monitoring has been conducted to guide conservation strategies.
As we see it, renewable energy initiatives can coexist with wildlife conservation through strategic partnerships and targeted efforts.