Environmental considerations
The introduction of an effective hovercraft link would have an effect on
so many different aspects of life.
Here we examine a few of the possible areas of impact on the natural
world of which we are guardians:
The Air
We all need air. Our planet needs air. We should take care of it.
Introducing another internal combustion engine powered vehicle is likely
to have some polluting effect, however much we try to reduce emissions
to a minimum or use biologically derived fuels. The resulting general increase
in economic activity in the area may produce still more. In spite of all
this it is difficult to imagine any scenario which could result in concentrations
of airborne pollutants approaching anything like those found every day
even in the rural parts of more industrialised nations. It is to
be hoped that, in the long term, energy crops and other plantings would
make a rather more than balancing contribution to the carbon equation,
making the whole project a net reducer of greenhouse gasses.
The Water
The cattle, the fish, the crocodiles and hippo's and all, and a great many
others downstream too, drink and enjoy these waters. The mighty Zambezi
is probably one of the least polluted of the earth's great rivers. It is
our responsibility to be especially careful. This would involve the adoption
of and adherence to appropriate and proper procedures as regards maintenance,
storage and transfer of fuels and lubricants and treatment of waste.
The Land
Buried and scoured though it is by the water on a regular basis, we still
need to take care. Fortunately hovercraft are about the ultimate low ground
pressure vehicle. They have little effect on the substrate over which
they move, but can lift fine dry sand.
Ecosystems, Plants, Animals
We have consulted with those who oversee the area's conservation and care.
They are enthusiastic. One of the benefits of hover technology is the very
small amount of disturbance to the surroundings and the minimal infrastructure
involved - a gentle brushstroke which leaves no lasting scar.
More aspects to consider
Sound
Sight
Thought
Cultural
welcome
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