Peat bogs scarce in Lancashire

Wildlife campaigners are pressing for a complete ban on the extraction and sale of peat immediately, and the preservation of existing peat bogs.

Native natural peatlands formed over 10 thousand years ago are in danger of extinction.

In Lancashire ninety-eight per cent of naturally formed peatlands are extinct.

Why is it important to save the boggy peatlands? 

Sphagnum moss covering peat bogs holds up to 20 times its own weight in water, effectively making it a super sponge. 

Alan Wright campaigns and communications chief for Lancashire Wildlife Trust, has all the answers.

“Peat bogs suck in carbon and hold carbon, when they’re managed properly, they’re better than trees.

“The peat bogs are the UK’s rainforest, also the lungs of the world as well.

“They actually suck in this carbon, and it’s good for the environment when they’re treated properly.”

Government legislation prevents  peat extraction after 2030.

Alan added: “The ban on peat has been coming for ten years, but never happened. 

“We were expecting peat to be banned last year, and there’s no reason why it hasn’t.”

The trust is actively restoring and creating peatbogs in Lancashire, Manchester, and North Merseyside. 

They advise farmers how to repurpose part of their land to create peatbogs. 

Alex Critchley communications officer for the trust said: “In a lot of places we’ve been working on wetter farming. 

“It’s part restoring agricultural peatland and allowing farmers to grow crops which are profitable and that’s exciting.”

Alan is passionate about preserving wildlife and nature reserves not only for the present but for future generations.

“It’s a no-brainer to bring these things in, this government isn’t just looking after generations to come.

 “It breaks my heart to think some of the species, I know and love, see every day might not be there for children and great grandchildren and people today.”