Expert calls for "saltmarsh revolution" sparked by Hinkley C plans
A lecturer at the University of Reading is calling for the habitat to be restored across the UK
An academic from the University of Reading is hoping EDF's plans to create 340 hectares of saltmarsh will spark a "saltmarsh revolution" across the country.
Bosses at Hinkley C in Bridgwater, want to build the habitats to compensate for the 44 tonnes of fish expected to be sucked into the cooling system of the nuclear power plant, which is currently under construction.
The habitats have several environmental benefits, acting as a powerful carbon storage site that provides a natural flood defence.
However 85% of the UK's saltmarsh land has been drained for agricultural purposes.
Dr Jonathan Dale from the University of Reading works to find ways to restore the habitat.
"The Severn estuary stands at the forefront of a potential saltmarsh restoration revolution, with EDF's current proposals representing just of a number of schemes planned for the estuary," said Dr Dale.
"Current research is critical to understanding how drainage channels develop and interact with the existing agricultural drainage channel network. This knowledge could unlock the key to creating thriving intertidal habitats along our coasts."
"With rising sea levels threatening aging flood defenses, many coastal areas face inevitable inundation.
"By planning these transitions now, rather than waiting for nature to take its course, we have a unique opportunity to shape the future of our coastline.
"What begins with EDF's proposals could advance the approach to coastal management that benefits both wildlife and our planet."