Notes following the event: SEVERN BARRAGE: Are there better options?
The event was attended by 77 adults and created a lively discussion at the end. The issue is does not lend itself to simple conclusions. Readers will make up their own minds. The following may be of assistance.
Summary
While huge resources of cement, steel and fossil fuels would be needed to construct a tidal power unit, there is great potential for generating electricity for many years thereafter with very little need for anything other than the flow of tides.
Concerns were expressed that:
n The wildlife of the estuary should be given all reasonable protection.
n Innovative technologies should be investigated.
n Long term sustainability of our community and the planet should take precedence over corporate ownership and profits.
n Renewable energy will not solve all our problems. Government must make clear that our current way of life is unsustainable however much renewable energy capacity is installed because:
l Fossil fuels will become increasingly expensive – probably quite soon.
l Other resources – particularly metals - are being consumed at an unsustainable rate. This is already a matter of serious concern – coming generations will curse us for our wastefulness.
l UK dependence on imports makes the country vulnerable.
l Burning fossil fuels is rather like using a piano for firewood – it works but there are so much better uses.
l Pollution from the burning of fossil fuels causes breathing disorders, acid rain and many of other problems.
l Climate changes have already occurred. The climate scientists might be right in saying that carbon dioxide will make them very much worse.