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University of Bristol's Actions for GDA 6

Updated: Nov 12

Local to Bristol is the Severn Estuary, which is recognised as the third largest tidal flow in the world. There is huge potential for harnessing the tidal power suggesting it could provide up to 7% of the UK’s electricity. Multiple feasibility studies have been conducted, most notably in 2010 where a report published by the Department of Energy and Climate Change found that many years of further detailed work would be needed to plan, finance, and assess the impacts of such a large structure before a case could be put forward for planning consent. 


More recently, in 2024 a new commission was launched to re-examine the potential for tidal energy schemes on the Severn Estuary. Early this year experts met for the first time in Cardiff to explore whether using the Severn Estuary to create sustainable power is attainable and viable.

Photo by Ruth Sharville and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.


As such, in line with the water theme of the Global Day of Action 6, the Bristol Law Clinic is hosting an insightful panel discussion on the potential of the Severn Estuary as a source of tidal power. This event will bring together diverse perspectives on a topic at the intersection of sustainability and controversy, exploring several challenges. The discussion also aims to connect legal clinics across the globe to raise awareness and take collective action in response to the climate emergency.


During the event, the university will have the following key speakers/panellists:

  • Sir Jonathon Porritt - formally Co-Chair of the Green Party and an eminent writer and campaigner on sustainable development who acts as an advisor to many bodies on environmental matters, as well as to individuals including King Charles.

  • Professor Colin Taylor – Served on the stakeholder panel of the last government review of Severn tidal power back in 2010.

  • Dr Andrew Garrard CBE – In March 2024 he became Chair of the Severn Estuary Commission whose task is to investigate the feasibility of generating electricity from the Severn Estuary in the UK. Past Part-time Prof. at Bristol University.

  • Mr Temitope Onifade – An expert on sociological aspects of environmental law and sustainability impacting government, business and civil society actors.


The event will be chaired by Professor Catherine Kelly (Head of Law School).


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