Transformation of Peatland Management Toward Climate Targets in Europe

Abstract

Agriculture and forestry on drained peatlands contribute substantial amounts of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. The transformation of peatland management toward “wet” land use takes on an increasingly critical role in achieving zero net carbon emissions by 2050. Yet, the translation of European Union climate target ambitions into peatland relevancy on emission reduction remains unclear. The study presents an analysis of the current status and future pathways of peatland transformation in European countries. Our data are collected by a survey with 60 experts in 8 countries and a workshop with 16 experts in 3 countries. The analysis shows expected trends for drained peatlands, indicating a shift from drainage-based cropland to grassland or wetland use. Although these trends support emission reduction, nations with lucrative peatland areas are likely to resist shifting to less profitable land uses. Three categories of management practices were identified based on water level. Among them, grassland paludiculture and grassland with elevated water tables are appreciated by experts. The transition pathways for Finland, Germany, and the Netherlands reflect the consensus that peatland emissions have to be reduced drastically. However, differences in soil types, geoclimatic zones, and diverse management approaches among countries pose a challenge when assessing and implementing the potential of mitigation. Experts highlighted the desirability and feasibility of spatial coordination to align the interests of land managers. Similar hurdles appear for the transition pathways, especially missing economic incentives. The transition demands wider public support, financial action, and reconciling differing stakeholder interests along transparent and stringent pathways.