Peatland loss: up to 10% of global CO2 emissions
Peatlands are being destroyed at a rapid pace. Although drainage and fires lead to huge CO2 emissions, the problem is still largely ignored in climate mitigation strategies. Wetlands International demands the Parties of the UN Climate Conference this problem. We also show how to rehabilitate degraded tropical peatlands. Read more.
Protect and restore wetlands for adaptation to climate change
Wetlands function as sponges, as buffers against storms, as sources of fresh water and food. Protecting and restoring mangroves, reefs, peatswamps, mountain lakes and floodplains should therefore get recognised as effective climate adaptation strategies. The loss of these wetlands will however magnify the impacts of climate change and be disastrous for our safety and water security. Learn from our projects in coastal areas, in the Sahel and in high mountain areas. Read more.
Adverse measures: biofuel production causes wetland loss
Production of biofuels is supported by many governments as a mean to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Wetlands International calls for strict criteria. Biofuel production often leads to the loss of wetlands, to demand of tremendous amounts of water harming biodiversity and livelihoods, to huge carbon emissions from peatland degradation and to increased land competition which on its turn leads to new unsustainable practices. Read more.