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
16/11/11Hidden benefits of peatlands revealed by new Inquiry
The enormous importance of our peatlands for people and wildlife was revealed today with the publication of the findings of the IUCN UK Commission of Inquiry on Peatlands.
03/08/11'Investing in Peatlands: Demonstrating Success' Symposium 2012
Joint British Ecological Society and IUCN UK Peatland Programme Symposium
Bangor University, Wales 26 - 28 June 2012
This international symposium will bring together experts from science, policy and practice to highlight and debate the importance of peatlands and peatland restoration from an ecological, social and economic perspective.
21/06/11Inquiry generates urgent call for peatland action
An urgent international call for action on peatland protection and restoration has been made today (21 June 2011) following the release of findings at a landmark peatlands conference. Delegates heard that a loss of only 5% of the carbon stored in UK peatlands would equate to the total annual UK greenhouse gas emissions.
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.
