Protecting peatlands could cut carbon emissions by 10 per cent.(CLIMATEWATCH) From: Geographical | Date: March 1, 2008 | COPYRIGHT 2008 Circle Publishing Ltd. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan.  All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group.Copyright information

Cleaning, draining and burning peat bogs emits the equivalent of ten per cent of global emissions from fossil fuels, according to a report issued by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).

'Protecting and restoring peatlands is perhaps another key "low-hanging fruit" and among the most cost-effective options for climate change mitigation; said Achim Steiner, executive director of the UNEP.

Peat is decaying plant material on its way to becoming coal. When wet, it...