From the Chinese marshes to the turberas of Argentina and peatswamp forests of Central Kalimantan, Wetlands International has become the global expert in peatland restoration and conservation.

Central Kalimantan's peatswamp forest

In the severely degraded peatlands of Central Kalimantan (Indonesia), drainage canals and logging have had disastrous impacts in an attempt to convert the unsuitable peatswamps into rice fields. By building small dams and blocks, the drainage was stopped of the area, preventing further oxidation of the peat soil.

Moreover, the area was reforested with native tree species and community fire brigades to prevent the island's huge problem of peat fires. Read more on the Central Kalimantan Peatlands Project (CKPP). 

China’s Ruoergai marshes

Runoff from the glaciers in the Himalayas towards China’s lowland is regulated and stored in the Ruoergai marshes. Our Wetlands International China office worked to declare this peatland a Ramsar site, giving the Chinese government the obligation to protect the area.

Furthermore, because of our work with the local Chinese authorities in measuring the impact of different management options, peat mining and drainage are now no longer allowed in Ruoergai and the neighbouring counties. This also leads to improved water supply to the Yellow and Yangtze River. Read more...

Turberas of Tierra del Fuego, Argentina 

In Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, the Wetlands International Latin America office has built awareness on sustainable use of the peatlands from the local to the national level, which have contributed to their protection. Read more (Spanish)...