Introduction
Peatlands cover about 3% of the earth and contain 20-35% of the carbon in the terrestrial biosphere/soils (IGBP/Wetlands International) while at the same time supporting a very high diversity of species, many of which are unique to this ecosystem. Degradation of peatlands leads to massive carbon emissions (such as estimated emissions of 500-1000 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from peatland fires in Indonesia in 1997-98).

Over the past three years, Wetlands International and the Global Environment Centre have developed a global project on “Integrated management of peatlands for biodiversity and climate change” to address issues arising from mismanagement and unsustainable use of peatlands. It consists of a range of components at the global level and country studies in China, Indonesia and Russia. These components will aid in assessing the importance of peatlands as carbon stores and provide recommendations for improved and sustainable management to reduce net emissions of greenhouse gases whilst sustaining and enhancing other values.

UNEP-GEF and other funders including the Canadian Climate Change Development Fund, Global Peat Initiative and the Netherlands Government have provided support and the project has been formally launched in May 2003.

Objective of project
The objective of the project is to assess peatland management practices and the associated impacts on biodiversity and climate change. The project aims to provide recommendations on how peatlands could be managed in the future to maintain the role of peatlands as carbon stores and sinks, while at the same time conserving the biodiversity and mitigating climate change.

Options for Involvement
There are a range of options for involvement in the project such as through sharing experience, reviewing literature, contributing to country studies, attending workshops, participating in egroups etc. The project particularly would like to establish links with organizations undertaking or planning similar activities in the same or other countries.

Lead Managing Organisation : Wetlands International & Global Environment Centre

Project Duration : May 2003 - December 2007

For more information on the project, click on one of the following:

1. Project Partners and Funders  
2. Project Components  
3. Status of Activities Underway
4. Project Outputs   
5. Contact Us  

PeatMatters Newsletter Currently a newsletter has been developed under this project called PeatMatters. It is developed under the Outreach Component of the project and is intended to enhance understanding at global level on peatland issues by informing readers of key issues on peatlands, biodiversity and climate change, progress on the project implementation as well as upcoming events and projects. Click here to view an online version of Issue 1 of PeatMatters.