Thank you for contacting me about peat burning.
I understand your concerns on this issue. The impact of rotational burning of vegetation on blanket bog continues to be hotly debated by academics, scientists, land managers and everybody involved on all sides. I know, however, that healthy peatlands have an important role to play in cutting greenhouse gas emissions and helping the UK reach its net zero target, so I am pleased that £640 million has been committed through the Nature for Climate Fund to restore 35,000 hectares of England’s peatland by 2025.
My Ministerial colleagues have always been clear on the need to phase out rotational burning of protected blanket bog to conserve these vulnerable habitats, and the intention has always been to legislate if a voluntary approach failed to deliver. From speaking with them, I know Ministers are currently considering legislation and the next steps which can be taken. In the meantime, however, it is encouraging that real progress is being made in promoting sustainable alternatives.
I agree that restoring and better managing our peatlands is absolutely essential for nature recovery and tackling climate change. I know that the Committee on Climate Change has highlighted the particular need to restore blanket bogs. For that reason, Ministers are committed to publishing an English peat strategy that sets out the direction for restoration, protection and sustainable management.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Thank you again for writing to me.
