The Global Peatland Fund reduces greenhouse gas emissions by rehabilitating degraded peatlands – especially peatswamp rainforests in Southeast Asia. Peatland rehabilitation and conservation are extremely cost effective carbon mitigation options (US$7 to US$17 per tonne of CO2).

Wetlands International has over a decade of experience in implementing on-the-ground peatland management and restoration initiatives from Southeast Asia to Siberia and Argentina. In our approach we make sure that nature and people benefit, making the restoration activities sustainable.

What does the Global Peatland Fund?

The Global Peatland Fund supports projects that prevent large quantities of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions by protecting and restoring peatlands. Furthermore, it promotes sustainable development through micro-credit and small grants to peatland inhabitants. These projects will generate Voluntary Emission Reductions (VERs), validated by the Voluntary Carbon Standard (VCS) and designed to meet the Climate, Community and Biodiversity (CCB) Standards.

How are CO₂ emissions prevented?

The Global Peatland Fund’s projects prevent CO₂ emissions through:

1. Re-flooding previously drained peat forests and deforested peatlands by building dams in the drainage canals
2. Reforesting deforested peatlands using native species
3. Protection of remaining peat forests from deforestation and drainage
4. Fire management activities to prevent and control peat fires

The Global Peatland Fund is currently focused on Sumatra and Kalimantan in Indonesia. In both regions Wetlands International has successfully carried out community-based peatland conservation and restoration projects in cooperation with local governments and communities. Ongoing research has made the emission reductions measurable, reportable and verifiable. 

Download the Global Peatland Fund flyer