Peatlands: our hidden heroes

Peatlands may be less well-known than tropical rainforests, but they play an equally crucial role in our climate. They are the largest natural carbon sinks on Earth: they even store more carbon than all forests combined, despite occupying only a tenth of the land area.

Intact peatlands act as giant carbon sinks, continuously absorbing and storing CO₂ from the air. However, as soon as they are drained for agriculture, peat extraction, or other human activities, this process reverses. This releases enormous quantities of greenhouse gases—responsible for at least 5% of global emissions, more than the entire aviation sector combined. (LINK)

Protecting and restoring peatlands is essential. They are not only key to combating climate change, but also unique landscapes rich in biodiversity and history. Peatlands are our rainforests close to home – and deserve the same care and attention.