Aura Centre for Doctoral Training

Background: I graduated with a BSc Environmental Science and an MSc International Innovation (Environmental Science), which combines knowledge of marine environment and renewable energy. I gained experience in Costa Rica working in a turtle conservation project with my undergraduate dissertation based on the population trend of Olive Ridleys’. My masters combined international work experience in China (6 months) as an intern. Projects involved the health, safety and environmental impact of component manufacture in China and the other was based on the life-cycle inventory (cradle-grave). The elements lead and silicon in the solar-packs were assessed from the time they were mined till they were discarded/recycled.

Research Interests: I am interested in the infrastructure for recycling wind turbines at the end of use, specifically the major components such as blades and tower.  My interest also includes degradation of certain materials and how they can be better combated but also the impact on marine environment. Furthermore, I have an interest in the impact of magnetic waves on certain fauna; for example, impacts of navigation in turtles and birds. Although this appears to be a broad spectrum of topics, I would like my research to provide zero-in environment and health and safety.

Why you applied for the Aura CDT: With significant money and interest demonstrated by government and society, I feel this will provide a key stepping stone for me to learn, develop and spread knowledge. My ultimate goal is to be a lecturer or working with industry to provide societal needs while considering the environment. The Aura Programme will hopefully provide vital skills in both enhancing my career and meeting their goals. It would be mutually beneficial considering most offshore renewable energy is provided in Europe. It may prove vital after enhancing my skills in the programme to help other developing nations work towards zero carbon emissions.

PhD Research:

Offshore wind is forecasted to grow significantly in the coming decades to combat climate change and for energy security. The influx of offshore wind technologies will impact fisheries socially and economically, we need to understand the perceptions of developers and their interactions with fisheries to, particularly as different stakeholders view the sea differently. Like marine spatial planning and co-location, compensation is seen as a form of conflict mitigation but can have both negative and positive effects that varies across different fisheries and comes at a cost to offshore wind developers. My study will revolve around better understanding the economic and socio-cultural interactions between the two sectors.

Contact: W.Naidoo-2020@hull.ac.uk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/woolaganathan-naidoo-06b44538/