Conservation

The conservation of peatlands is important for a number of reasons including biodiversity, archaeology, carbon and water storage and also because of their landscape value. No single initiative by any one organisation can hope to achieve the long-term conservation of peatlands. What is required is a variety of initiatives that address the many factors that threaten peatlands. In Northern Ireland a number of measures including Government policy, legislation, protected sites and education are currently utilised as part of a strategy for the protection and conservation of peatlands.

• Peatland Policy - Peatland is the only habitat for which Government has produced a policy statement in Northern Ireland.
• Legislation - No laws have been introduced which are specifically designed to protect peatlands but all legislation that protects landscapes, habitats, species and certain archaeological sites also assists in the conservation of peatlands.
• Protecting peatlands - Some peatland sites are designated and legally protected as a result of European, national and local legislation
• Biodiversity Strategy - The Northern Ireland Biodiversity Strategy seeks to contribute to global biodiversity by conserving and enhancing the biological diversity of all habitats, including peatlands, across Northern Ireland.
• Agri-environment schemes - The majority of peatlands in Northern Ireland are in private ownership and their conservation is dependant on the adoption of good management practices by their owners.
• Education - Education and public awareness is an essential element of peatland conservation.
• Community Action and Grant aid - local communities are playing an increasingly important role in the conservation of peatlands. Peatland conservation projects can apply to NIEA for grant-aid.
• Natural and human factors - Peatlands are sensitive habitats that are easily affected by both natural and human factors.