Peat Bog
Biology: Cambridge International GCSE Supplement, topic 19.3.3
Peat bog Destruction
Peat is a deposit of partially decayed plant matter, which accumulates in bogs. Here, carbon remains in the plants instead of being released into the atmosphere.
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Peat bog destruction
- The destruction of peat bogs has become more common, resulting in the burning or decay of peat.
- This releases the stored carbon into the atmosphere in the form of the greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide.
- Another negative impact of peat bog destruction is the loss of biodiversity within the habitat.
Reasons for peat bog destruction
- Peat bogs are being destroyed for the following reasons:
- To free up land for farming, which requires the bogs to be drained. This draining process stimulates peat decay.
- To burn the peat for fuel.
- To sell the peat to gardeners as garden compost.
Reducing peat demand
- Peat demand can be reduced by gardeners using peat-free compost, such as manure or bark chippings.
Test yourself on Peat Bog
What are the negative impacts of peat bog destruction?