Evaluation of Renewable Energy Adoption on Wildlife Habitats in Western Rangelands

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess evaluation of renewable energy adoption on wildlife habitats in western rangelands. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The evaluation of renewable energy adoption on wildlife habitats reveals a complex interplay between environmental conservation and sustainable energy development. While renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power offer promising alternatives to fossil fuels, their deployment can significantly impact wildlife habitats. Studies indicate that wind farms, for example, can pose risks to bird and bat populations due to collisions with turbine blades and habitat fragmentation. Similarly, large-scale solar installations may disrupt local ecosystems and affect species diversity. Hydroelectric projects often involve habitat destruction and alteration of water flow patterns, impacting aquatic organisms and riparian ecosystems. However, research also suggests that careful planning and mitigation measures can minimize these negative effects. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Habitat fragmentation theory, landscape ecology theory and socio-ecological systems theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the evaluation of renewable energy adoption on wildlife habitats in western rangelands. Establish adaptive management frameworks that allow for flexible decision-making based on ongoing monitoring and feedback mechanisms. Incorporate wildlife conservation goals and biodiversity targets into renewable energy policies and regulations.