Category FAQs Search : Ecosystem
Question: Peatlands and organic soils.
Answer: In many parts of the world peatlands are drained and used for agriculture and forestry. When drained, peatlands become net sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. According to FAOSTAT estimates they contribute up to 1 Gigaton of GHG emissions per year through oxidation. This makes them the third largest emitter after crop and livestock agriculture and net forest conversion.
In addition, draining peatlands changes vegetation cover, erodes biodiversity, lowers water quality, increases the frequency of fires, causes land subsidence and can lead to other negative environmental consequences.
Rewetting and the responsible management of peatlands can help maintain peatland ecosystem services while supporting the improvement of local livelihoods and their adaptation to the changing conditions. For example, rewetting of already drained peatlands ensures that the once drained peatlands adapt to face climate change: conserving biodiversity, regenerating vegetation, replenishing freshwater resources as well as reducing GHG emissions.
(Source: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations , 18 Feb 2021)
Source Link: http://www.fao.org/in-action/micca/knowledge/peatlands-and-organic-soils/en/