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Can solar projects improve biodiversity?

YES. Solar projects do not inherently reduce biodiversity, and when designed with best practices, they can sustain or even increase local wildlife and plant diversity. Impacts depend on where and how projects are built. Siting solar on already developed land and minimizing soil disturbance can maintain habitats and support more diverse vegetation, insects, and birds. Solar farms can create "microclimates" where shade under panels reduces soil moisture loss and encourages plant growth. This may be especially valuable in regions currently experiencing hotter, drier conditions. AllSides highlights content from Gigafact, a network of newsrooms that respond to online claims. View the full fact brief on Skeptical Science.