Summary
This expert-led assessment synthesises evidence on peatland carbon cycling and predicts a shift from carbon sink to source status during the current century. The work identifies critical drivers of change affecting peatland carbon stocks and reveals substantial gaps in how peatland ecosystems are represented in major Earth system and integrated assessment models used for climate projections and policy. The authors argue that improved understanding of peatland–carbon–climate interactions is essential for accurate climate modelling and mitigation planning.
UK applicability
The United Kingdom contains significant peatland resources, particularly in Scotland, Wales, and upland regions, which are subject to similar climate and land-use pressures outlined in this global assessment. Improved representation of UK peatlands in national and international climate models would refine projections of future carbon release and inform land management and carbon accounting policies.
Key measures
Peatland carbon balance (sink vs. source status); drivers of peatland carbon dynamics; representation in climate modelling frameworks
Outcomes reported
The study quantified leading drivers of peatland carbon stock change during the Holocene and predicted their effects during this century and beyond. It identified key uncertainties and knowledge gaps affecting integration of peatlands into Earth system and integrated assessment models.
Topic tags
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