NI's First Peatlands Protection Strategy Unveiled

A New Strategy for Protecting Northern Ireland's Peatlands

Northern Ireland has taken a significant step forward in its efforts to protect and restore its peatlands with the launch of a comprehensive strategy. This initiative aims to transform all semi-natural peatlands into functioning ecosystems by 2040, through 26 specific actions designed to meet five key objectives.

One of the central components of the strategy is a consultation on restricting the sale of peat and peat products. This move aligns with broader efforts across the UK and Republic of Ireland to reduce the use of peat in horticulture and other industries. The strategy also includes a wildfire management plan and the creation of a register of peatlands to identify those most in need of immediate support.

The importance of this initiative cannot be overstated. Peatlands play a crucial role in filtering water, removing pollutants and nutrients before they reach water bodies such as Lough Neagh. Peter Harper from the Lough Neagh Partnership emphasized the connection between peatland restoration and the health of the lough, stating that reducing nutrient and phosphate runoff could have a positive impact on water quality.

A steering group will be established to oversee the implementation of the strategy, along with a delivery plan and reporting framework within four months. This structured approach ensures that progress can be monitored and adjusted as needed.

Northern Ireland’s semi-natural peatlands cover 12% of the land, making them internationally significant. These areas include lowland raised bogs, blanket bogs, and fens. They hold over half (53%) of the carbon stored in soil across the region, known as the soil carbon pool. However, 86% of these peatlands are degraded, leading to the release of carbon rather than its storage. Another 6% of the land consists of "highly modified peat soils," which are also in need of restoration.

Restoring peatlands and peaty soils is essential for meeting climate change targets and reducing emissions. Under the second objective of the strategy, there will be a consultation on restricting retail sales of peat. Work with the horticulture sector will aim to phase out the use of peat by 2030. This aligns with similar initiatives in other parts of the UK, where England and Wales have committed to banning the retail sale of peat, and Scotland has pledged to phase it out.

Research into peatland management is part of the third strategic objective, with a focus on mitigating climate change. The fourth objective involves documenting the cultural heritage value of peatlands, recognizing their historical and ecological significance.

Funding for the Peatland Strategy has been secured through several sources, including the Environment Fund, Shared Island Funding, and PEACEPLUS, extending until 2028. Currently, £7.8 million is allocated for peatland restoration through the Environment Fund and Shared Island Fund, with plans to restore approximately 1000 hectares and develop restoration plans for 5000 to 6000 hectares.

In addition, PEACEPLUS funding of around €40 million (£34.7 million) is being used for nature projects in Northern Ireland, including a peatland restoration element covering about 12,500 hectares over the next few years.

Why Peatlands Matter for the Environment

Peatlands are vital for maintaining environmental balance. They act as natural carbon sinks, storing vast amounts of carbon and helping to mitigate climate change. Their ability to filter water is equally important, contributing to cleaner water supplies and healthier ecosystems.

The ongoing efforts to protect and restore Northern Ireland's peatlands highlight the growing recognition of their ecological and environmental significance. As new projects emerge, such as the revival of the Tyrone bog, the importance of these landscapes becomes even more apparent.

With continued investment and collaboration, Northern Ireland is well-positioned to lead in peatland conservation, ensuring that these critical ecosystems remain healthy and resilient for future generations.