Peatland restoration in Scotland struggles to secure funding

Despite its potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions, peatland restoration in Scotland is not being fully recognized as a climate change solution, hindering private investment.

Kevin Keane reports for BBC.

In short:

Experts argue that the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) does not recognize peatland restoration as a valid method for offsetting emissions.
Damaged peatlands in Scotland release over six million tonnes of CO2 annually, equating to emissions from home heating.
Public funding alone is insufficient, and private finance is needed to meet restoration targets set by the Scottish government.

Key quote:

“We are seeing active sales falling through or companies not even wanting to look at peatland carbon credits because of SBTi.”

— Dr. Renée Kerkvliet-Hermans, peatland code manager

Why this matters:

Recognizing peatland restoration in carbon offsetting standards could unlock essential private funding, aiding in the significant reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change more effectively.

www.bbc.com

Peatland restoration in Scotland struggles to secure funding

Chemical giant, climate skeptics vie for seats on EPA science panel

Nutritionist Marion Nestle weighs in on 'What to Eat Now'

With Trump absent from COP30 talks, the world moves on without U.S.

Podcast: Will we artificially cool the planet?

Fossil fuel lobbyists outnumber all COP30 delegations except Brazil, report says

European Parliament backs diluted 2040 climate targets

Opponents say bill bolstering Ohio's orphan well program is too generous to the oil and gas industry

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Pennsylvania health advocates say Trump’s first 100 days in office have caused “100 harms” to local communities

“They're terrorizing these scientists because they want to keep them silent.”

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.