Citizens raise alarm over rare salamander threat from Japan solar project

In Kushiro, a small town on Hokkaido Island, Japan, the construction of mega solar projects has raised concerns among local citizens and conservation groups regarding its impact on biodiversity, particularly the rare northern salamander. These large solar photovoltaic installations are part of Japan's strategy to expand renewable energy, which is crucial for meeting global climate goals set during COP 29. The town's favorable conditions, such as long sunlight hours and flat land, make it an attractive site for solar energy production. However, the overlap of the salamander's habitat with the proposed construction sites has sparked alarm. Local authorities and residents question the environmental assessments conducted for these projects, citing a significant knowledge gap regarding the effects of solar installations on local wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and aquatic invertebrates. A 2017 UK government study highlighted the limited research available on the ecological impacts of solar farms, emphasizing the need for more comprehensive studies. While there are concerns about the negative effects of solar PV installations on biodiversity, some reports suggest that, if managed properly, solar developments on degraded agricultural lands could potentially support local ecosystems. This dual perspective on the impact of solar energy projects underscores the complexity of balancing renewable energy expansion with the preservation of local biodiversity. As the demand for renewable energy continues to grow, the situation in Kushiro serves as a critical case study, prompting broader discussions about the safety and sustainability of mega solar projects in relation to local ecosystems.