In a world increasingly grappling with climate extremes, a quiet but powerful battle is being waged beneath our feet — in the damp, carbon-rich soils of the UK’s peatlands. These mossy landscapes may not look like climate warriors, but they are among the planet’s most potent carbon sinks. That’s why the UK government’s recent proposal to extend its ban on peatland burning is being hailed as a major step forward in the global fight against climate change — even if, as some environmental groups argue, it’s not yet bold enough.
This week, in line with our Tuesday Climate Action Tips series, we explore the full scope of this landmark proposal and offer practical ways you, whether an individual or a business, can support peatland restoration and protection. Because climate action isn’t just for policymakers — it’s for everyone.
What’s Happening: The UK Government’s New Proposal
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is proposing to expand current restrictions on burning vegetation on deep peatland, which are already in place across 222,000 hectares of protected upland. The new plan would extend protection to 368,000 hectares — covering more than half of England’s deep peat soils.
The proposal is now open for public consultation until May 25, 2025, signaling a crucial opportunity for citizens and organizations to weigh in on one of the UK’s most ecologically significant landscapes.
Key components of the proposal include:
- Redefining “deep peat” from 40cm to 30cm, making more areas eligible for protection.
- Tightening licensing requirements for any burning activities, allowing exceptions only for wildfire prevention and scientific research.
- Aligning with Scotland’s progressive policies, including those under the Wildlife Management and Muirburn Bill.
“Our peatlands are this country’s Amazon Rainforest,” said Nature Minister Mary Creagh. “They are home to our most precious wildlife, store carbon, and reduce flood risks.”
Why Peatlands Matter So Much
Let’s break it down: peatlands are a superpower of nature. They cover 12% of the UK’s land area and store more carbon than all the UK’s forests combined — yet 80% of England’s peatlands are already degraded.
The practice of burning heather and vegetation — historically used to regenerate land for game bird shooting — dries out these wetlands, releasing stored carbon, increasing wildfire risks, and wreaking havoc on biodiversity.
Here’s what peatlands do when they’re healthy:
- Store vast amounts of carbon, helping to reduce greenhouse gases
- Regulate water flow, reducing the severity of floods in urban and rural areas
- Filter and purify water, improving drinking water quality
- Support rare wildlife, including dragonflies, adders, and unique moss species
And here’s what happens when they’re burned:
- Carbon emissions spike, worsening climate change
- Wildlife habitats are destroyed
- Air quality deteriorates, especially affecting communities near upland moors
- Flooding risk increases, particularly in already vulnerable towns like Hebden Bridge and Sheffield
“This is excellent news and a relief for the residents of Sheffield, Manchester, and Hebden Bridge, who have suffered from smoke and flooding caused by burning,” says author and environmental activist Guy Shrubsole.
Where the Proposal Falls Short
Environmental groups like The Wildlife Trusts are applauding the move — but they’re also urging the government to go further. They argue that all peatlands—not just those deemed “deep” or in protected zones—should be entirely safeguarded from burning.
“Burning peatland is extremely damaging,” says Dr. Rob Stoneman of The Wildlife Trusts. “This proposal is good news for the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the natural carbon cycle — but it needs to be stronger.”
What You Can Do: Climate Action Starts With You
Whether you’re an individual, a business owner, a student, or a local leader — there are actionable steps you can take today to help protect these essential ecosystems.
1. Respond to the Public Consultation
- The UK government is actively seeking input until May 25, 2025.
- Make your voice count by supporting a full ban on peatland burning.
- Visit the Defra consultation page and submit your response, urging stronger protections.
2. Support Peat-Free Gardening
- Many composts contain peat extracted from vulnerable bogs.
- Switch to peat-free compost in your garden or greenhouse.
- Encourage local gardening stores to stock and promote sustainable alternatives.
3. Donate or Volunteer with Conservation Groups
- Organizations like The Wildlife Trusts, Moors for the Future, and RSPB are working to restore and protect peatlands.
- Consider donating, volunteering for restoration projects, or spreading their message.
4. Advocate Locally
- Educate your community, school, or workplace about peatland protection.
- Ask your local government or council to pass resolutions or policies supporting stronger climate and nature-based protections.
5. Green Your Business Practices
- If you’re in construction, farming, or landscaping, assess your supply chain for peat-based products.
- Businesses can adopt net-zero goals that include nature-based solutions, such as peatland preservation and rewilding support.
Final Thought: A Rare Opportunity to Get It Right
Peatlands may not have the majestic presence of rainforests or the vastness of oceans, but they are among the most essential ecosystems for planetary health. The UK’s renewed focus on banning peatland burning could set a powerful precedent for other countries battling similar ecological degradation.
This is our opportunity — as individuals, as communities, as nations — to restore what’s been lost and protect what remains. Because in saving the peatlands, we are saving more than land — we are saving futures.
ACT NOW: Make your voice heard before May 25, 2025. Support a full peatland burning ban. Visit the official consultation page here
Share this article. Talk about it in your circles. Let’s ignite the right kind of fire — one for change, for climate, and for generations to come.
Thank you for reading!
