Strengthening the Evidence Base for Peatland Policy in England

The IUCN UK Peatland Programme (IUCN UK PP) is pleased to launch the Expression of Interest (EOI) process for a major Defra-commissioned project: Strengthening the Evidence Base for Peatland Policy in England (November 2025–March 2027).

As an individual or organisation involved in peatland restoration, IUCN UK PP invite you to review the topics proposed and submit an expression of interest if your organisation would like to be involved.

This substantial review aims to synthesise the growing body of research relevant to peatlands like those found in England, drawing on high-quality evidence from the UK and internationally. The findings will inform future policy, support delivery of nature-based solutions, and guide long-term peatland management and restoration.

As the organisation contracted to lead this work, IUCN UK PP are now inviting specialists from across the peatland community to participate in developing a set of topic-specific briefings. To ensure the strongest possible evidence base, they are particularly keen to reach a wide and inclusive community, including contributors drawing on European and international literature relevant to the UK context.

Expressions of Interest are welcome across three authorship models (commissioned, collaborative or IUCN-led) depending on the topic. Submissions may include individuals or organisations and should reflect relevant expertise, experience, or perspectives that can strengthen the final outputs.

Key Dates

• EOI process opens: 1 December 2025

• EOI deadline: Midnight, 14 January 2026

• Notification of successful applicants: February 2026

• Work begins on topic briefings: From March 2026

• Final drafts due: December 2026

This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the evidence informing peatland policy at a national level. We encourage all interested contributors to review the project outline for each topic and submit an EOI via our online form.

Find out more about the review, including the objectives and delivery model for each topic: Defra Commissioned Peatland Evidence Review | IUCN UK Peatland Programme.

Submit an expression of interest via their Google Form: Defra Commissioned Peatland Evidence Review.

If you have any questions about the topics or the review process, please contact info@iucn.org.uk.