Net ecosystem exchange from two formerly afforested peatlands undergoing restoration in the Flow Country of northern Scotland

Northern peatlands, crucial for global carbon regulation, have been significantly altered by land-use changes, particularly through afforestation with non-native conifers. This study presents the first year-round assessment of net ecosystem CO2 exchange (NEE) from two peatlands in Scotland's Flow Country undergoing restoration, comparing them to a near-pristine site. The older restored site (16 years post-restoration) functioned as a carbon sink, similar to pristine peatlands, while the younger site (10 years) remained a source. These findings highlight the variable timescales of peatland recovery and underscore the importance of long-term monitoring in restoration efforts.

Hambley, G., Andersen, R., Levy, P., Saunders, M., Cowie, N. R., Teh, Y. A., Hill, T. C.,. (2018). Net ecosystem exchange from two formerly afforested peatlands undergoing restoration in the Flow Country of northern Scotland. Mires and Peat, 23, 5. https://doi.org/10.19189/map.2018.dw.346