Modelling the ecological impacts of tidal energy barrages

摘要: Tidal energy has the potential to form a key component of mix number countries, including UK. Nonetheless, deployment tidal systems is associated with environmental impacts as prime resource sites often coincide unique ecosystems inhabited by sensitive organisms. Preceding studies have generally focused on hydrodynamic impact schemes, i.e. how schemes alter flow dynamics and sedimentary transport processes. Whilst these efforts are in understanding impacts, there no straightforward step for translating sediment faunal changes. Species distribution models offer methods quantitatively predict certain possible extraction. The River Severn distinguished candidate region UK featuring under stringent ecological protection regulations. We examine proposed barrage 14 species via linking modelling models. Through selection that linked simple food web system we extrapolate changes prey respective predator species. show at lower trophic levels adversely affected barrage, but higher level organisms increase habitable area. Once relationships acknowledged this habitat area decreases, still net positive. Overall, all were affected, most gaining area, only four losing within Estuary. conclude large-scale may detrimental complex distribution, altering threatening availability methodology outlined herein can be transferred assessment optimisation prospective projects globally aide sustainable introduction technology.