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Mires and Peat is the joint peer-reviewed journal of the International Peatland Society (IPS) and the International Mire Conservation Group (IMCG). As a truly “free-to-users” publication, it is immediately accessible to readers and potential authors worldwide. The journal publishes high-quality research papers on all aspects of peatland science, technology and wise use, including: ecology, hydrology, survey, inventory, classification, functions and values of mires and peatlands; scientific, economic and human aspects of the management of peatlands for agriculture, forestry, nature conservation, environmental protection, peat extraction, industrial development and other purposes; biological,...

Peatlands interact with climate through the uptake and release of greenhouse gases (GHGs). These are carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O). Emissions and their impact on climate and vice versa are studied worldwide by thousands of scientists, many of whom are members of the IPS. To understand the GHG balances of peatlands, a profound knowledge of their biology, chemistry and hydrology is required. There are also differences between geographical regions and mire types, which need to be taken into consideration. Mires are important carbon stocks and can...

Wise Use of Peatlands can be described as the uses of peatlands for which reasonable people now and in the future will not attribute blame. The IPS has developed a framework for Wise Use to resolve conflicts between the different values and uses of mires and peatlands. Overall, the major – anthropocentric – conflicts which arise with respect to peatland use are between those who wish to develop mires and peatlands for their production or carrier functions, and others who wish to preserve them for their regulation and non-material life-support...

The Strategy for Responsible Peatland Management was published as a joint stakeholder document in 2010. The document contains information on the extent of peatlands, their values and the use of peatlands and peat worldwide. It formulates strategic objectives and actions for biodiversity, hydrology and water regulation, for climate and climate change processes, for economic activities, for after-use, rehabilitation and restoration, for human and institutional capacity and information dissemination, as well as for the engagement of local people and good governance. To order a printed copy, visit https://bit.ly/srpm2010. To read the...

Peatlands can be found across all five continents, especially in the Northern hemisphere and in Southeast Asia. Many of them are in pristine or near-natural condition, but they are also increasingly degraded and often misunderstood. Peatlands are extremely important for our climate and biodiversity. In many regions, they also play an important role for society and the economy. Drained peatlands are widely used for agriculture (7%), forestry (4%) and many other purposes. Of all the peatland areas, 0.1% are used for peat extraction, and 0.05% for growing media. The tropical...

The 16th International Peatland Congress was held virtually, hosted by the Estonian National Committee of the IPS in May 2021, with over 185 oral and 75 poster presentations. International Peatland Congresses (IPC) are the main forum for IPS members and other peatland specialists to meet and exchange information. They are held every four years and attended by young, mid-career and experienced scientists, as well as students of biology, geology, horticulture, forestry, agriculture, history and many other subjects, around 700-800 persons. Click on the links below to watch the original presentations...

Welcome to the IPS networking event on 5 November! Peatland Partnerships in Climate Change Mitigation and Nature Recovery Location: Peatland Pavilion, blue zone Time: 11:30 - 13:00 hrs GMT (UTC+0) Register here (closed right now): https://globalpeatlands.online/PeatlandPavilionCOP26Registration Virtual pavilion tour: https://storage.net-fs.com/hosting/6147066/7/ (recorded sessions will be added to dome 6 soon) The event can also be watched afterwards, if you have registered above and go back to Friday in your agenda. PROGRAMME Chair of Session: Jack Rieley, Chair of Scientific Advisory Board, 2nd Vice President Welcome by Dr Alue Dohong, Deputy Minister...

The IPS Executive Board confirmed at their meeting on 23 February that all activities of the Society with members, stakeholders and others will be maintained. It also agreed on a team and timetable to fill the position of Secretary General. As interim measure Diplom-Kaufmann (FH) Susann Warnecke was appointed Acting Secretary General as of 1 March, in addition to her current tasks. We look forward to continue cooperation with you! #peatland #peat #togetherwearestronger. For more information on the Secretariat, visit www.peatlands.org/secretariat.

Press release 22 February 2021 In light of on-going developments with COVID-19 and after thoughtful discussions, the IPC2021 organizing committee has decided to move our 16th International Peatland Congress to an entirely online format. The official dates for the IPC2021 online congress are Monday, 3 May - Thursday, 6 May. We believe this is the safest approach for the well-being of our global audience. The virtual congress will include plenary keynote sessions, scientific sessions, plenary PEAT Talks session, full-day Industry Summit programme, as well as spaces in which to connect...

As of 26 February, current Secretary General Gilbert Ludwig will head for new challenges. We warmly thank him for all efforts for the Society and wish him success in his new tasks! IPS' Presidents met on 16 February, and the Executive Board will meet on the 23rd to decide on future recruitment for the position. The work of the organisation continues normally and we will keep you updated on developments. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact the Secretariat via susann.warnecke (at) peatlands.org, the IPS President at...