Assessing, Measuring, and Preserving Peat Carbon Through The Global Peatlands Initiative (GPI) Factsheet

The Global Peatlands Initiative (GPI), a project spearheaded by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the Greifswald Mire Centre (GMC), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), has made significant strides in advancing sustainable peatland management across four tropical peatland countries: the Congo, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Indonesia, and Peru. Launched in August 2019 and set to conclude in February 2023, this initiative was meticulously designed to incorporate peatlands into the national action plans and strategies of these countries. By fostering capacity development and raising awareness among governmental and local stakeholders, GPI aims to mitigate the substantial greenhouse gas emissions from drained, degraded, or unsustainably managed peatlands, thereby supporting global climate action efforts.

Throughout its implementation, the GPI has achieved remarkable outcomes by facilitating the integration of peatlands into various national frameworks crucial for environmental stewardship and climate resilience. Technical assistance provided by FAO has enabled the inclusion of peatland conservation in the nationally determined contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement, showcasing a global commitment to peatland preservation. In Peru, for instance, peatlands have been incorporated into the National Environmental Policy and a program for climate change mitigation in Amazonian peatlands, among others. Similarly, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has moved forward with consultations for a National Peatland Roadmap, emphasizing the critical role of peatlands in national and regional environmental strategies.

The ongoing impact of the GPI is profound, as it not only promotes biodiversity conservation and supports sustainable livelihoods but also enhances the global community's capacity to manage peatlands more effectively. By documenting best practices, providing global policy advice, and building capacity through international workshops and collaborations, GPI has established a robust foundation for future initiatives aimed at preserving these vital ecosystems. The project's success is a testament to the power of international cooperation in addressing complex environmental challenges. For more detailed insights into the GPI's activities and achievements, you can download the e-factsheet below.