What is the UK government doing to protect England's peatlands?

The UK government is banning the burning of peatland in England to restore habitats for rare wildlife and reduce air pollution and flooding.

Why are England's peatlands important?

England's peatlands are crucial carbon sinks that store vast amounts of carbon and help regulate water levels, acting as natural flood defenses. However, 80% of these peatlands are currently in poor condition due to drainage and burning.

How will the new rules impact the UK's efforts to combat climate change?

By protecting and restoring England's peatlands, the new rules will help preserve these important carbon sinks, which play a vital role in mitigating climate change. The ban on peatland burning is a significant step towards safeguarding the UK's natural resources and addressing environmental challenges.

Home / Environment / UK Bans Peatland Burning to Restore Habitats and Curb Flooding

UK Bans Peatland Burning to Restore Habitats and Curb Flooding

9 Sep

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Summary

Burning on England's deep peat to be banned
Peatlands act as carbon sinks and natural flood defenses
80% of England's peatlands are dried out and deteriorating

UK Bans Peatland Burning to Restore Habitats and Curb Flooding

In a significant move to protect the environment, the UK government has announced a ban on burning peatland in England, effective from September 30th, 2025. This decision aims to restore habitats for rare wildlife and reduce air pollution and flooding in the region.

England's peatlands, often referred to as the country's "Amazon rainforest," have been in poor shape due to extensive drainage, burning, and use as grouse moors. These peatlands act as natural sponges, storing vast amounts of carbon and helping to regulate water levels. However, government data shows that 80% of England's peatlands are currently dried out and deteriorating.

The new rules will extend the burning ban to all peat over 30cm deep, covering a total of 676,628 hectares - a significant increase from the previous 222,000 hectares. This measure is expected to help rewet and restore these precious ecosystems, which play a crucial role in mitigating climate change and reducing the risk of flooding for nearby communities.

Environment Minister Mary Creagh emphasized the importance of these peatlands, stating, "Our peatlands are England's Amazon rainforest - home to our most precious wildlife, storing carbon and reducing flooding downstream." The RSPB's Chief Executive, Beccy Speight, also praised the move, calling it "a hugely positive step forwards towards protecting these precious habitats and reducing carbon emissions."

With these new regulations in place, the UK is taking a significant step towards safeguarding its natural resources and addressing the pressing environmental challenges of our time.

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