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
17/05/12New Report on Peatlands and Climate Change Mitigation
Publication being launched today (Thursday May 17th) by FAO and Wetlands International at launch of Global Organics Soils and Peatlands Climate Change Mitigation Initiative Event
11/05/12IUCN UK PP gives evidence to Scottish Parliament RACCE Committee
IUCN UK PP gives evidence to the Scottish Parliament Rural Affairs, Climate Change and Environment Committee on April 25th 2012.
09/05/12ClimateXchange briefing
In response to enquiry from the Scottish Government, ClimateXchange has produced a briefing on potential reduction that could arise from from peatland restoration in Scotland.
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.
