The IUCN UK Peatland Programme exists to promote peatland restoration in the UK and advocates the multiple benefits of peatlands through partnerships, strong science, sound policy and effective practice. The work of the Peatland Programme is overseen by a coalition of environmental bodies including the John Muir Trust, Scottish Wildlife Trust, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, RSPB, North Pennines AONB Partnership, Moors for the Future and the University of East London.
About Us
News & Event Headlines
19/04/13Investing in Peatlands: Partnership for a New Peatland Era 2013 Conference
The latest 'Investing in Peatlands' Conference organised by the IUCN UK National Committee Peatland Programme is set for 10th -12th September 2013 at York University.
27/03/13Save the Date Announcement for IUCN Peatland Conference 2013
IUCN UK Peatland Programme announce Save-the-Date for their next conference, Investing in Peatlands: Partnership for a New Era, in York, 10-12th September 2013
08/02/13UK Environment Ministers announce Action for peatlands
UK Government Environment Ministers have issues a statement of intent to conserve peatlands in the UK and British Overseas Territories.
Restoration
There are global calls for urgent action to restore damaged peatlands to stop carbon loss and benefit from the ecosystem services of a healthy peatland.
Climate Change
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The UK's damaged peatlands emit 10 million tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere yearly. Restoring peatlands provides a cost effective means of reducing emissions.
Water
Peatlands play a key role in water resource management, storing a significant proportion of global freshwater resources and maintaining water quality.
Biodiversity
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Peatlands support many important species and unique ecosystems. Much of the UKs peatland is identified as internationally important under EU wildlife legislation.
State of the Peatlands
Of the world’s 175 peatland nations, the UK is among the highest emitters of CO2 from damaged peat, largely through drainage, burning, agriculture and forestry.
Burning
Burning of peatlands can have a damaging effect on sphagnum growth depending on the condition of the peatland and how the burn is conducted.
Historic Environment
The UK’s peatlands preserve a wealth of historical information, archaeological sites, and even ancient preserved human bodies of significant cultural value.
Sustainable Management
A broad range of national, EU and international policies impact on the sustainable management of peatlands, including climate, biodiversity and planning legislation.
