Wind turbines pose no significant threat to human health

There are no significant adverse effects to human health stemming from wind turbines, according to a study by Germany’s Federal Environment Agency (UBA). Scientists analysed the health risks wind turbines might pose due to noise emissions (including subsonic noise), ice throw, light emissions and shadows, as well as disturbances based on subjective perception of turbines. If turbines are operated correctly, “the health risk potential is very marginal,” the study said. Technological progress had considerably reduced detrimental impacts of turbines, making them less dangerous for human health than CO2-emitting coal plants, the UBA said. However, it added there often were “fears and reservations among residents concerning potential health risks, in spite of clear scientific indications” that would be best countered by closely involving the public in the planning and construction of wind turbines near their homes from the start.

Find the study in German here.

For more information, read the CLEW dossier The People’s Energiewende.