Tidal Barrage Social and Economic Benefits Vs Environmental and Ecological Negatives - Dissertation Example

There is a major difference between a dam and a tidal barrage in the sense that dams store water on one side whereas, tidal barrages firstly allow water to flow into a river during high tides and later releasing the water back during low tides (Heal, 2009). This is mainly done by controlling the tidal flow and sluice gates. A sluice gate is a barrier made of wood or metal set in the sides of waterways. The main purpose of sluice gates is to control water level and flow in rivers and bays. They are also used in wastewater treatment to recover wide arrays of minerals in mining operations (Iwo-Hwu, 2008).

Tidal barrages are the oldest and most convenient methods of tidal power generation; many countries like Russia, the UK, and China have been benefitted by it. However, there are positive and negative factors associated with tidal barrage. A Tidal barrage may offer social and economic benefits in terms of producing tidal energy that can be useful for the society at the cost that is very affordable and economical (Sobolev, et al, 2009). This helps in meeting energy needs along with adding value to the social and economic framework.

The research is based on ascertaining the importance of tidal barrages along with analysing the social and economic benefits and environmental and ecology negatives. For this purpose, a systematic and critical approach will be undertaken to underpin the pros and cons of tidal barrage and thus reflecting the overall value and challenges. 1.2: Research Aim The research aims to investigate the importance of tidal barrage along with underpinning the social and economic positives and environmental and ecological negatives.

In order to support and strengthen the proposed research aim, the researcher has formulated few research objectives that have been discussed as follow: 1.3: Research Objectives The purposed research objectives are as follow: To underpin the usefulness and impact of tidal barrage in a critical manner To assess and analyse the social and economic positives To evaluate and assess the environmental and ecological negatives To critically assess the value and contribution of tidal barrage in strengthening the overall infrastructure To offer recommendations based on the results to enhance the positive effects of a tidal barrage 1.

4: Research Questions The researcher has formulated few research questions that will further help in seeking answers for the proposed research aim and objectives. The research questions are as follow: 1. What is the usefulness and significance of tidal barrage? 2. What are the social and economic benefits associated with the effective maintenance of tidal barrage? 3. What are the environmental and ecological challenges associated with the structuring of tidal barrage? 4. What are the initiatives that can be undertaken to enhance the utility and benefits of tidal barrage? 1.5: Rationale for the Research Topic Sources and resources of energy play a pivotal role in the social and economic development of countries.

Oftentimes, conventional sources of energy help nations to cut power costs along with safeguarding the environment and eco-system. In this regard, tidal barrages have emerged as one of the highly cost