Are emission reductions from peatlands MRV-able?

Globally very significant GHG benefits can accrue by avoiding peatland degradation and by actively restoring peatlands. This report, produced for the UNFCCC Climate Change Talks in Bonn, June 2009, addresses the question whether the results of such actions are measurable, reportable and verifiable.

The practice-oriented proxy methodologies currently under development in Europe and SE Asia (based on water level, vegetation, and subsidence) are critically discussed with respect to feasibility and costs. It is concluded that – whereas further development is necessary and is being pursued in running research and implementation projects – these methodologies will enable cost-effective and reliable baseline setting and monitoring of GHG emissions. This will allow inclusion of peatland conservation and rewetting in a post-2012 climate framework.