A recent study published in Environmental Research Letters warns that peatland fires in the UK have released an estimated 800,000 tonnes of carbon between 2001 and 2021. With global temperatures expected to rise, emissions from these fires could increase by at least 60%, reaching 3.8 million tonnes of carbon annually.
Key Findings of the Study:
🔹 Projected Emissions Impact – Equivalent to the annual emissions of:
- 133 commercial aircraft
- 820,800 passenger vehicles
- 414,000 homes
🔹 Global Peatland Distribution – Peatlands cover 4.23 million km² (about 2.84% of Earth’s land surface).
🔹 Carbon Storage Powerhouse – Peatlands store more carbon than any other terrestrial ecosystem, even exceeding global forests.
What Are Peatlands?
- Peatlands are wetland ecosystems where waterlogged conditions slow down plant decomposition, leading to the accumulation of peat.
- Cool Climates: Dominated by Sphagnum moss, sedges, and shrubs.
- Warmer Climates: Composed mainly of graminoids and woody vegetation.
The Role of Drained Peatlands
- 16% of the world’s peatlands are drained for agriculture, forestry, or development.
- They cover just 0.5% of Earth’s surface, yet they contribute significantly to carbon emissions when burned or degraded.
Global Importance
- The world’s largest tropical peatland is located in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- If peatlands degrade or burn, they release centuries of stored carbon into the atmosphere, accelerating climate change.
(Sources: University of Cambridge & International Petland Society)
