Could you share more about your current research projects and highlight the part that you find most engaging or innovative?
The work I am conducting at the moment entails spatial modeling the Bristol Channel – a body of water that I grew up alongside off the coast of Clevedon. Once simply a familiar sight, I now view it as a remarkable natural resource bisecting England and Wales. If we harness its enormous tidal range, the Bristol Channel could generate gigawatts of predictable renewable energy.
My research focuses on enhancing the environmental compatibility of tidal range infrastructure, by modeling opportunities of coastal habitat conservation, particularly for saltmarsh development. One of the most exciting aspects of this work is estimating carbon sequestration over time across vast sections of coastline. By linking these findings to carbon-credits valuation, the project highlights how tidal energy schemes can economically incentivise conservational practices, making them a transformative opportunity for green-financing.
How do you envision tidal range energy shaping the future of sustainable energy policy?
Among the many research topics of CSEP, tidal range is among the most pertinent for offsetting national carbon emissions. It is important to remember that the benefits of having a robust economy are diminished if we cannot maintain the health and productivity of our natural heritage. For this reason, I believe it is important to research mechanisms that support both economic and ecological stability. My research combines these objectives, providing economic incentive into a scalable industry through the lens of environmentalism.
What attracted you to working at CSEP?
While studying the MSc in Environmental Technology, the word ‘Interdisciplinary’ cropped up countless times. Initially, I was dubious about the significance of this concept, having come from a background in Palaeontology, I was used to working in my comfortable silo. However as the weeks went by it was clear to see that wicked problems required global, multi-sectoral perspectives. Interdisciplinarity inspired my MSc thesis, which thankfully was recognised by CSEP. Despite the transition from the ‘Centre of Environmental Policy’ to the ‘Centre for Sectoral Economic Performance’, interdisciplinarity maintains its position in the faculties agenda.
What experiences outside of your career have had the biggest impact on your personal growth?
I have been playing guitar for most of my life and I particularly enjoy recording songs for my friends and family. I am also an avid rower, having been a rowing coach for two crews at varying ages on the coast of Hampshire. I enjoy long hikes, having recently summited Kilimanjaro with a group of students for Teenage Cancer Trust. Raising money for charity isn’t new to me however, as of June 2024, I set up a fundraiser for Pancreatic Cancer Research for a cycle from London to Paris. I believe being creative in your personal life is directly proportional to a healthy and productive work life, therefore I aim to further integrate my creativity here at CSEP.