Context: A new study reveals that peatlands—a vital carbon store that many people have never heard of—are dangerously under-protected, putting the global climate at risk. Covering just 3% of Earth's surface, these terrestrial wetlands store 600 billion tons of carbon—more than all the world's forest biomass combined—yet only 17% of peatlands fall within a protected area.

About Peatlands

• Peatlands are terrestrial wetland ecosystems in which waterlogged conditions prevent plant material from fully decomposing.

• These ecosystems consist of both the organic-rich soil (peat) and the wetland vegetation thriving on the surface.

• Consequently, production of organic matter exceeds its decomposition, which results in a net accumulation of peat.

Key findings of Study

• Limited Protection: Only 17% of peatlands fall within protected areas. Just over half of protected peatlands are under strict protection.

• Protection Varies by Biome: Boreal peatlands are 16% protected in comparison to temperate peatlands which are 27% protected.

• Tropical peatlands are also 27% protected with 8% strictly protected.

• Regional and Country-Level Disparities: China and India show higher peatland protection.

• Underprotected Compared to Other Ecosystems: Mangroves are 42% protected, salt Marshes are 50% protected while tropical forest is 38% protected.

Significance of Peatlands                                       

• Largest Carbon store on Land: While occupying just 3% of Earth’s land surface.

• Natural Buffer: Act as natural water filters and buffers for environmental disasters.

• Biodiversity conservation and Livelihood Protection: Home to diverse freshwater fish and endangered species, also provide food and fuel for local communities.

• Carbon Storage: Peatlands store more carbon than all the world’s forests combined, acting as a natural buffer against climate change.

• Climate Regulation: They provide a cooling effect by sequestering atmospheric carbon.

• Water Management: Regulate and purify water supplies, supporting human consumption and ecosystems.

• Biodiversity: Provide habitats for rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.

• Cultural Importance: Preserve archaeological and cultural heritage due to their waterlogged conditions.

• Livelihoods: Support local communities through ecosystem services and resources.

Threats to Peatlands

• Drainage and Land conversion: Damaged peatlands are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, almost 5% of global anthropogenic CO2 emissions.

• Overgrazing: In mountainous areas peat can be vulnerable to degradation through overgrazing.

• Peat Extraction: Used as fuel and for horticulture, leading to habitat destruction.

Initiatives for Protecting Peatlads

• Global peatland initiative led by UN Environment programme for accelerating the conservation efforts.

• Ramsar Convention, 1971: An international treaty focused on wetland conservation, which includes important peatland ecosystems

• Wetlands Rejuvenation Programme: Initiated by MoEFCC in 2020, this program aims to rejuvenate over 500 wetlands across India. 

• Amrit Dharohar Scheme: Launched with Union Budget 2023-24, Amrit Dharohar Scheme is a key initiative aimed at optimizing wetland utilization in India.