Upland peats

Greater Manchester has set a target of net carbon neutrality by 2038. Modelling currently used by Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) suggests that 50- 75% of peatland in the city region will need to be restored in order to achieve these targets, but this modelling may significantly underestimate the role of peat in net emissions budgets.

Using a combination of best available evidence and engagement with key partners and stakeholders, this report provides evidence on the spatial extent, condition, and depth of the peat resource in the city region, and associated GHG emissions based on current land use. Providing case studies of current issues around peat management in upland and lowland settings, and describe alternative options on a trajectory to good peat condition.

The UK’s first collaborative Peatland Strategy has been developed by the IUCN UK Peatland Programme to capture and embed, for the long term, a shared vision for our peatlands, helping maintain a focus across a broad partnership and allowing progress to be marked and celebrated.

Peatlands are wetland landscapes that are characterised by waterlogged organic soils made of dead and decaying plants. They may not sound or look much on first glance, but dig a little deeper into the facts and figures and you’ll be amazed how this unique habitat functions and at the services it provides.

Moors are important for the climate and biodiversity. This report looks at what is driving global peatland destruction and what are its local and global impacts? What is lost in the process? What are the drained peatlands used for? How can we protect peatlands?

Natural capital accounts for peatlands measures the ecosystem services which nature provides from this dramatic landscape, including water, carbon sequestration, food and recreation.