Peatlands play an important role in all kinds of Earth´s landscapes, especially with respect to their ability to fulfil multiple ecosystem functions and deliver manifold ecosystem services. Amongst others, they store water and carbon and host various highly specified species. Thus, the conservation of existing and restoration of degraded peatlands gain political and practical importance in serving the dual challenge of biodiversity conservation and climate mitigation. However, pedological and hydrological characteristics of these areas fundamentally determine the design of restoration strategies as well as the resulting impacts on the environmental situation. Moreover, as a considerable proportion of potentially relevant sites is used for agricultural, horticultural or forestry purposes, their restoration and conservation are tightly linked to a socio – economic dimension that needs to be accounted for in the planning and implementation of interventions. This is especially true in densely populated regions of Europe, where competing societal interests often shape the success or the failure of restoration and conservation attempts. Potential projects are further under high pressure to meet robust policy targets and economic expectations. To reconcile these demands, science-based strategies are essential to guide effective strategies and ensure that restoration and conservation of peatlands are both ecologically sound and socially sustainable.
In this session, we invite results on different aspects of peatland restoration and conservation, drawing on both empirical and modelled studies. We particularly welcome studies that address or include:
- Data-driven decision support tools for peatland restoration planning and implementation
- Quantification of socio-economic, ecological, and biophysical indicators in restoration design, application, and effectiveness assessments; derived by monitoring or modelling approaches
- Socio-economic frameworks to accompany sustainable and long-term economic strategies for restored or conserved peatlands
- Science-guided implementation strategies across levels of ecosystem degradation