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
29/09/10IUCN UK Peatland Programme Conference
28- 29 September 2010, Durham.
We are pleased to announce our IUCN UK Peatland Programme Conference in collaboration with the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Partnership.
24/09/10Cinderella Habitat Will Go to the Ball
Dirty, smelly and a useless waste of space. That’s the public image that peat bogs have acquired over the years. But top UK scientists have gathered forces to rid the so-called ‘Cinderella Habitats’ of this reputation, and help them to shine as modern ecosystem heroes.
11/08/10Russia’s damaged peatlands burn
Savage forest fires in Russia have spread into drained and degraded peatlands, causing significant risks to local people as well as serious air pollution.
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
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
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.
