You are on a committee that is planning whether or not to build a tidal power plant near a diverse and healthy coastal habitat. Describe at least two of the benefits and two of the costs to the environment you should consider before deciding to build the dam.
Renewable. Requires no fuel. Emission-free Reliable, a plant can last 100 years High efficiency Predictable output Could potentially provide a storm surge barrier. Environmental impacts are local, not global
Cons
Expensive to build Very location specific (only 20 sites identified with high potential) Non-continuous, storage or grid-backup required Locations are often remote Barrages may restrict access to open water Can change tidal level of surrounding area Impact on fish, marine mammals and birds Disrupts regular tidal cycles Decreases salinity in tidal basins Mud flats (where many birds feed) adversely impacted Captures dirt, waste and pollution near the coast Reduces kinetic energy in the ocean
