The future of the UK’s peatland landscapes is to be discussed at a major conference held at Sheffield Hallam University next month.
Environmental experts from across the country will gather to discuss solutions to safeguarding, conserving and restoring our heaths, moors, bogs, fens and commons as well as examining the ecologies, heritage, histories and functions of peat bogs across the world.
The ‘In the Bog’ conference, led by Ian Rotherham, Sheffield Hallam’s professor of environmental geography, will address key findings in peatland research from restoration for landscape and ecosystem functions to the neglected histories and heritage of the bogs.
Peat landscapes cover nearly 3% of the Earth’s surface and are an important carbon storage tool that prevents the release of CO2 into the atmosphere. Peatlands also help to manage the quality of our water and the reduction of flood risk.
However, the amount of carbon-rich biomass contained by peat means it can be dried and burnt as a fuel, which makes it an important energy source in some countries.
Ian further explores the nature of the global environmental crisis in his latest text book, ‘Eco-history: An introduction to biodiversity and conservation’ by focusing on the way in which human interaction with nature has influenced the state of British countryside today. The book is written around a unique 1000-year historical timeline of human history, conservation and biodiversity in Britain and is ideal for teachers, students, and those wanting to know more about the environment in crisis.
For more information about Ian’s book or to reserve a place at the conference taking place from 3-5 September at Sheffield Hallam University, visit www.ukeconet.org
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