The recent findings highlight the need to increase protection and management of global peatlands. This can be achieved by recognizing local authorities, strengthening institutions, and supporting indigenous-led stewardship, such as through Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas. The 10 countries with the most peatlands (Canada, Russia, Indonesia, US, Brazil, DRC, China, Peru, Finland, and Republic of the Congo) contain 80% of global peatlands. The first five countries account for 70% of global peatlands. Unfortunately, almost 25% of the world’s peatlands are facing significant stress due to activities like commercial agriculture, forestry, mining, and peat extraction for fuel and horticulture, as well as climate change. The study’s lead author, Kemen Austin, notes that the research shows these ecosystems do not have adequate protection. The study’s findings serve as a benchmark for conservation and management efforts, emphasizing the need for increased protection and management of these critical ecosystems.
Study Reveals Peatlands, Though Holding More Carbon Than Forests, are Deplorably Vulnerable to Pollution and Destruction
