Peatlands

Peatlands are unique wetland ecosystems characterized by waterlogged conditions that slow down plant decomposition. This leads to the accumulation of organic materials, primarily sphagnum moss, forming peat over thousands of years. Peatlands are crucial for biodiversity, storing carbon dioxide, and regulating water cycles, thus helping combat climate change. They support diverse wildlife and provide habitat for rare species. However, peatlands are threatened by human activities such as agriculture, drainage, and climate change, which can release stored carbon and diminish their ecological functions. Conservation efforts are essential to protect these vital ecosystems.