The UK government has instructed offshore energy companies to employ quieter methods for disposing unexploded ordnance from the First and Second World Wars, citing the need to protect vulnerable marine ecosystems.

There are currently more than 300,000 pieces of unexploded bombs in UK waters, which need to be cleared to facilitate the expansion of wind energy projects.

Marine minister Emma Hardy emphasized that 'high-order' detonations should be reserved as a last resort.

These powerful explosions pose a significant threat to marine life, such as whales and dolphins, whose behaviors and habitats are disrupted by the noise, according to experts.

Collaborating with the Crown Estate and professionals from the explosives and offshore wind sectors, the government is actively testing and developing quieter technologies for ordnance removal.

This initiative aims to balance the growth of offshore wind farms with the preservation of marine life.

The measures align with the UK government's Plan for Growth, which includes ambitions to decarbonize the country's energy grid by 2030. Stop Sea Blasts campaigner Joanna Lumley expressed her enthusiasm for the decision, underscoring the importance of protecting marine environments.

The movement towards quieter disposal techniques reflects broader efforts to enhance sustainable practices within the energy sector, ensuring that technological advancements minimize environmental impacts.