Example geology dissertation topic 6:

Tidal marsh sedimentation levels: A study along the Severn bore.

Much publicity has been given to the suggestion that the Severn bore (the largest of its type within the UK) could be used to generate tidal energy. However, comparatively little analysis has been carried out as to the effects that the infrastructural developments that would need to be put in place for the generation of that power could have upon sediment levels upon the bore’s course. Accordingly, using both field work and a computer based simulated model of the bore (in which its properties can not only be recreated but also adjusted), this thesis seeks to uncover the potentially devastating effect to exist sediment levels that could accompany the harnessing of this natural source of power.

Suggested initial topic reading:

• Archer, A. W. (2013). World’s highest tides: Hypertidal coastal systems in North America, South America and Europe. Sedimentary Geology, 284-285, pp. 1-25.
• Langston, W., & Ridgway, J. (2006).Geological and geochemical influences on estuarine ecosystems. In, Zektser, I., Marker, M., Ridgway, J., Rogachevskaya, L. and Vartanyan, G.(eds) Geology and ecosystems.Berlin: Springer, pp. 21-47.
• Manning, A. J., Langston, W. J. and Jonas, P. J. C. (2010). A review of sediment dynamics in the Severn Estuary: Influence of flocculation. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 61(1), pp. 37-51.