The impact of power stations, pylons and power lines can be seen along our coasts. Environmentally sustainable 'green energy' which may be vital for future prosperity can also sometimes compromise a landscape.

The National Trust is by no means 'anti-green', but argues that Britain's wild coasts and countryside are a crucially important asset. Therefore, intrusive land use should be resisted until the benefits can be proved to outweigh their environmental costs.

Energy from wind and waves
Offshore, wind farms are increasingly likely to play their part in the provision of energy, while wave energy seems to be on the brink of major developments.

These will not pollute the environment in the way that fossil fuels do; though better knowledge is needed of how tide-altering wave power schemes may affect the habitats of birds and fish.

Tidal barriers
Large tidal barriers will also bring changes to the ecology, and potential damage to existing communities of birds and other wildlife. In what way and to what degree will depend on the particular activity, local tides and other conditions.