Strive for sustainable option in Severn, urge The Wildlife Trusts

26th January, 2009

The Wildlife Trusts acknowledges the Government’s support – pledged today – for innovative research in a bid to harness the Severn estuary’s tidal power.  But the conservation charity says the tidal reef should have remained in the shortlist.

Joan Edwards, head of marine policy, for The Wildlife Trusts, said: “We implore the Government not to leap-frog common sense. Barrages are not the only answer. Current studies indicate a barrage across the Severn Estuary would destroy wildlife on an unprecedented scale. And it would be the least cost-effective means of tackling climate change.

“Whilst we recognise that the Government are being more open-minded, if we are going to proceed with energy production on this scale, and in the marine environment, we must ensure we get it right, both for people and wildlife.”

As part of the Government’s plan to harness the second largest tidal range in the world – at 14 metres – from the Severn Estuary, the Department for Energy and Climate Change (Decc) undertook a feasibility study to assess 10 proposed options. The Government has today announced a short-list of five renewable energy options to harness the power of the tides in the Severn estuary.

The Wildlife Trusts have strongly encouraged Government to thoroughly examine all tidal energy options for the Severn and strive for a sustainable option with minimal environmental impact - otherwise internationally important wildlife could be devastated.

Whilst The Wildlife Trusts acknowledge the Government’s decision to support innovative technologies with additional funding, options which place the environment first - such as the tidal reef - should have remained in the short-list.

The Wildlife Trusts believe an alternative to a barrage can be found which meets energy needs and maintains the habitats upon which birds - such as shelduck, dunlin, redshank, teal, European white fronted geese and pintail – depend for feeding areas. If a large barrage option were to be pursued the Sustainable Development Commission warned that up to 75% of inter tidal mudflat could be lost. Migrating fish species, such as salmon, trout and eel would also be at risk.

The Severn Estuary is an important and unique part of the UK’s environmental heritage. The Government has made commitments to protect its wildlife to the highest levels through European designation, in recognition of its internationally-important species and extensive habitat areas. Many would disappear if a barrage option were to be given the go-ahead. The consultation document outlines two genetically distinct species of fish; the allis and twait shad would be lost forever.

Story by RSWT

More Information

For further information, please contact:

• Anna Guthrie, media & PR manager on 01636 670075 / 07887 754659 aguthrie@wildlifetrusts.org

or
• Tanya Perdikou, media & campaigns officer on 01636 670057 / 07887 754657 tperdikou@wildlifetrusts.org

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