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

• 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.

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.