Action Programme Natural Climate Protection

28/10/2022 Peatland protection as a nature-based solution for effective climate protection is extensively considered in the Action Programme Natural Climate Protection (ANK), states the Greifswald Moor Centrum in its statement in the BMUV's online dialogue on this programme, which ends today. But there is still some room for improvement. Here is a summary of the most important points:
The target of 5 million t CO2 eq. annual reduction from peatlands by 2030, which is also set in the Peatland Protection Strategy, is still low. This is less than 10% of the current annual peatland emissions of 53 million t CO2.
The framing should change. Germany's peatlands are currently predominantly (85%) used for agriculture or forestry. The term "renaturation" suggests a natural development uninfluenced by humans after rewetting and the possibility of returning the peatlands to their former condition. In Germany, neither of these is possible in most cases. Therefore, the terms "rewetting" and "restoration" are more appropriate. These formulations express that the ANK also includes new, sustainable uses for peatlands.
The ANK can educate more people about peatlands and build long-term structures at federal, state and local levels. In addition to voluntary measures, it should also make adjustments to planning and regulatory law, thus enabling linked work by participating authorities for a comprehensive landscape assessment.

Source: Greifswald Mire Centre