Peatlands Hold More Carbon Than All the World’s Forests, Yet Are Dangerously Underprotected

Peatlands are vital ecosystems storing more carbon than all the world’s forests, yet only 17% are legally protected. This is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for GS Paper 3, which covers environmental conservation. Last Updated: 2025-02-26.

Key Facts About Peatlands

• Limited Protection: Only 17% of global peatlands are legally protected.
• High Human Pressure: 22% of peatlands face significant human impacts.
• Freshwater Security: Peatlands provide 10% of the world’s unfrozen freshwater.
• Indigenous Role: 27% of peatlands are on indigenous lands, with many outside formal protections.
• Carbon Storage: Peatlands store 600 gigatonnes of carbon.
• Climate Impact: Degradation releases CO₂, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
• Water Security: They help regulate water flows and mitigate disasters.
• Biodiversity Conservation: Peatlands support endangered species and preserve ecological records.

Peatlands and Global Environmental Goals

Peatlands play a critical role in global carbon storage, surpassing even the world's forests. This aligns with India's commitment to climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation. The degradation of peatlands could significantly impact global warming, as they release CO₂ when disturbed. Internationally, peatlands are a focal point for achieving sustainable development goals, particularly in water security and biodiversity conservation.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• National Action Plan on Climate Change: Focuses on sustainable development and climate adaptation.
• National Wetland Conservation Programme: Aims to protect and restore wetland ecosystems in India.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 1: Geography - Ecosystems and biodiversity.
• GS Paper 2: Governance - Environmental policies and indigenous rights.
• GS Paper 3: Environment - Conservation, climate change, and sustainable development.
• Prelims: Questions on carbon storage, freshwater sources, and biodiversity.
• Mains: Essays on climate change mitigation, indigenous rights, and environmental policies.

FAQ Section

• What are peatlands? Peatlands are wetland ecosystems that store large amounts of carbon, more than all the world's forests combined, and are crucial for climate regulation.
• Why are peatlands important? Peatlands are vital for carbon storage, freshwater security, and biodiversity conservation, but only 17% are legally protected, making them vulnerable to degradation.
• What are the key features of peatlands? They store 600 gigatonnes of carbon, provide 10% of the world's unfrozen freshwater, and support numerous endangered species.