What is your role at Xodus?

My role at Xodus is as Principal Environmental Consultant / Commercial Fisheries Specialist within the Environment Division / EIA team. I am working on a wide range of different projects, but my main focus is on providing clients support with any commercial fisheries requirements they may need. For example, we have written the recently published Fisheries Monitoring Guidance (https://www.gov.scot/publications/monitoring-offshore-windfarm-impacts-commercial-fishing-industry-good-practice-guidance/) and are regularly engaging with the fishing industry about offshore wind projects.

How/why did you become a specialist?

After my bachelor’s degree in Biology, I completed a master’s degree in “applied marine and fisheries ecology”. My first job was representing the Scottish fishing industry. During this role, I attended many meetings where stakeholders needed fisheries input; I liaised with the government and offshore wind industry on the impacts new developments could have on the fishing industry and discussed ways to mitigate the impact with developers, government, and other stakeholders. During this time, I learned about many different aspects of the fishing industry, how it works and its people. After nearly 5 years working for the fisheries industry, I joined Xodus, and since then, I have been supporting both the offshore wind industry and fishing industry in a variety of very interesting projects.

Why is your environmental discipline so important to the energy industry right now?

There is an increasing amount of competition between various industries for offshore areas. Many areas designated for offshore renewables, are also utilised by the commercial fishing industry to fish. Ensuring good communication between these two important industries is key to ensure both sectors can grow and continue to (sustainably) develop. As I have worked in both sectors, I have developed a thorough understanding of both sides, their challenges and views. I’m able to apply this in my role through facilitating dialogue between two industries with divergent wants and needs.

How does this role support the development of the energy industry?

This role helps to improve effective communication and collaboration between offshore renewable developers and the commercial fishing sector. Ultimately, this role helps to ensure that the transition to renewable energy is as efficient as possible, giving consideration to other long-standing marine users. Furthermore, in this role I’ve had the opportunity to share my experience with others in conference panel sessions. By sharing experience with others,  this role helps develop mutual understanding and encourages best practices in both sectors