Peatlands are unique wetland ecosystems that form through the gradual accumulation of partially decomposed plant material over thousands of years in water-logged conditions. Covering only 3% of the Earth's surface, they play a critical role as carbon sinks, containing approximately 30% of the world's soil carbon.
Degradation of peatlands is primarily induced by human activities such as drainage, fire, agriculture, and forestry. These actions lead to the release of stored carbon, significantly contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and accelerating climate change.
Peatlands are vital in several ways:
Mapping and monitoring peatlands involves a combination of satellite imagery and ground-based data collection. Tools such as SEPAL (System for Earth Observation Data Access, Processing, and Analysis for Land Monitoring) facilitate effective monitoring and mapping efforts. These initiatives are crucial for preventing further degradation and managing restoration efforts.
Restoring severely degraded peatlands is particularly challenging, especially those that have become hydrophobic and cannot naturally re-wet. Restoration efforts often require extensive interventions, particularly in areas like Europe, Central Asia, and South America, where the extent of degradation is significant.
Countries such as Indonesia, which is home to 40% of tropical peatlands, have established platforms like PRIMS to monitor and restore these critical ecosystems. Additionally, restoration projects in the Hindukush Himalayan region have been initiated to ensure water security. Worldwide, conservation efforts focus on re-wetting and adopting sustainable practices, including paludiculture.
Rewetting peatlands is essential to prevent carbon emissions and maintain their function as carbon sinks. Their conservation is crucial for meeting the objectives set forth by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
In India, further efforts are needed for peatland mapping, as current estimates suggest they cover only between 320 to 1,000 square kilometers. Given the low levels of topsoil organic carbon, effective conservation measures are necessary to prevent further depletion of these ecosystems.
Indian peatlands, which are primarily located in regions such as the Western Ghats, the Himalayas, and the Sundarbans, play a significant role in carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation despite their limited area. However, threats such as land conversion, drainage, and deforestation have led to degradation in many areas. Monitoring and restoration of these ecosystems are essential for preserving their ecological services, which include carbon storage, water regulation, and biodiversity support. Increased mapping and conservation efforts are imperative to protect these vital ecosystems amidst growing environmental challenges.
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