Damage to peatlands is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions responsible for climate change. 

Peatlands provide environmental services of economic and social importance including carbon storage, biodiversity and water management. Damage to peatlands is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions responsible for climate change. Peatlands are important in the management of water catchments and in a damaged state can exacerbate flooding problems that are likely to get worse under climate change.

In the UK, peatlands should be able to continue functioning under the impacts of a changing climate, provided they are brought into good condition. Restoration of peatlands offers climate change mitigation by stemming greenhouse gas emissions and brings adaptation benefits in helping alleviate flood problems and maintaining important biodiversity under a changing climate.