Coast

Climate change

There is growing evidence that the world's climate is changing, and this will have a significant effect on the UK, particularly our coastal areas. Experts within the scientific and academic communities have expressed grave concern about the amount of carbon emitted into the atmosphere. Many believe global warming is inevitable if we don't change our ways and reduce our desire for fossil-fuelled energy.

Who owns our coast?

As an island nation, we all rightly feel some sort of ownership over our coast. But how much of our 12,000 miles of coastline is open for us all to enjoy?.

Typically for our coastline. The beach is owned by three different landowners including the Crown Estate who own the biggest chunk of our coast with 55% of the foreshore (the area between high and low water) under their control. The beach above high water mark is owned by the beach dwellers

Energy

The government has made a pledge to cut our greenhouse gas emissions by 12.5%, and carbon emissions by 20% lower than the 1990 levels by 2010 - then a further 40% by 2050. One way they hope to meet this target is through the development and implementation of renewable energy sources. Britain has the best potential resources in the world for wind, tidal and wave power.

The coast is also home to the nuclear power industry, an important source of carbon free electricity. By 2023, however, all but one power station will be decommissioned, wiping out nearly a quarter of our electricity supply. Whilst renewables are currently unable to fill this void, the government is deliberating on its decision to replace the old sites with new streamlined plants which produce 90% less waste.