Article

Research from the University of Exeter reveals that Arctic peatlands are expanding, with margins advancing over a meter per year since around 1950. Analysis of peat cores from 91 locations indicates that these ecosystems currently cover a greater area than in the last 200-300 years, actively accumulating new peat.

Warmer conditions have fostered plant growth, increasing peat formation. The study highlights that while these peatlands enhance carbon storage, future extreme warming could lead to degradation and carbon release. The project is part of the Increased Accumulation in Arctic Peatlands (ICAAP), funded by the UK Natural Environment Research Council, and involves international collaboration.