Understanding peatlands and their ecological role

Peatlands are wetlands characterised by waterlogged soils composed of partially decomposed organic matter, primarily mosses and other plants. Unlike forests, which store carbon above ground in trees, peatlands store it underground in peat deposits. In fact, peatlands hold twice the amount of carbon as all the world's forests combined!

Unfortunately, over the past 15 years, we've lost a significant portion of global peatlands due to drainage, conversion for agriculture, and fires. This loss releases the stored carbon back into the atmosphere, exacerbating climate change.

The importance of peatland conservation and restoration

Conserving and restoring peatlands is crucial for several reasons:

• Reduced carbon emissions: Protecting existing peatlands prevents the release of their stored carbon, while restoration helps recover degraded peatlands and increase carbon sequestration.
• Biodiversity hotspots: Peatlands provide vital habitat for diverse species, including rare and endangered plants and animals.
• Water regulation: Healthy peatlands act like natural sponges, regulating water flow and preventing floods.

Challenges in peatland conservation

Despite their importance, peatland conservation faces several challenges:

• Land-use conflicts: Peatlands are often drained for agriculture or forestry, leading to habitat loss and carbon emissions.
• Climate change: Rising temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns can dry out peatlands, making them more susceptible to fires and degradation.

The role of peatlands in global carbon offset strategies

Peatland conservation and restoration offer a cost-effective and scalable way to address climate change. By protecting and restoring these vital ecosystems, we can significantly reduce carbon emissions while promoting biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Summary

Peatlands play a crucial role in global carbon sequestration, storing vast amounts of carbon and acting as natural filters for our planet. Protecting and restoring these vulnerable ecosystems is essential for addressing climate change and ensuring a healthy cooler planet for future generations.

Next steps

• Support organisations like CarbonClick that support peatland conservation and restoration projects.
• Educate yourself and others about the importance of peatlands and the threats they face.
• Make informed choices in your daily life, such as opting for peat-free products and supporting companies committed to sustainable practices.

How can CarbonClick help?

CarbonClick actively supports projects like Rimba Raya, contributing to peatland conservation and global carbon offsetting efforts. By choosing to offset your carbon footprint with CarbonClick, you're directly contributing to the protection and restoration of these vital ecosystems.