Welcome to our weekly newsletter focusing on environmental trends and solutions driving us towards a more sustainable world.
I’m Alexandra. Hearing about eels perishing in large numbers at hydro dams made us ponder the lack of attention compared to other wildlife issues. We believe these aquatic creatures deserve safe passage. Discover a company tackling this challenge with innovative technology.
This week’s highlights include:
– Eels facing mortality in hydro dam turbines: A revolutionary design offers hope
– Understanding the mechanics of heat pumps
– The intriguing presence of an airship over a central Alberta town
Every year, endangered American eels embark on a perilous journey down the St. Lawrence River to reach their breeding grounds in the Sargasso Sea. Unfortunately, many fall victim to the turbine blades at hydroelectric dams, contributing to a drastic 99% decline in their population since the 1970s. Natel Energy, a California startup specializing in fish-friendly turbines, has developed new turbine runners that aim to prevent these fatalities without compromising power generation efficiency.
American eels, unique in Canada for their catadromous nature, play a crucial role in the biodiversity of the region. Revered by Indigenous communities along Lake Ontario and surrounding rivers, their dwindling numbers are attributed to overfishing, habitat loss, and hydroelectric dams. Natel Energy’s innovative “FishSafe” turbine design, featuring curved blades and enhanced safety measures, could significantly increase the survival rate of eels passing through hydroelectric dams.
The company’s technology, proven effective in the European market, presents a promising solution to safeguard eel populations. By demonstrating that fish protection can be seamlessly integrated into existing hydroelectric infrastructure, Natel Energy aims to inspire more companies to adopt fish-friendly practices.
This advancement offers a glimmer of hope for the American eel population, emphasizing the importance of balancing energy needs with environmental conservation efforts.
For more insights on environmental issues, stay tuned for our upcoming newsletters. Thank you for reading and remember to share your thoughts with us at whatonearth@cbc.ca.