Wind energy is a carbon-free, renewable source of electricity. Still, wind farms, like any economic activity, have some environmental impact. Wind farms use a significant amount of land and can disturb the onshore and offshore habitats where turbines are placed. Some critics of wind argue that turbines endanger flying wildlife, such as birds and bats, but recent studies of these effects have shown that bird deaths from wind turbines are minimal. In some cases, after the short term disturbance caused from installation, offshore structures have been shown to provide an artificial reef environment with increased fish populations.

Researchers also are seeking to develop materials for turbine blades that last longer and are less resource intensive, as well as ways to repurpose and reuse old turbines.