Peat in Figures

The total peatland area across all EU Member States (EU27) spans 268.000 km², with 51% classified as natural. Also known as mires, peatlands are unique ecosystems that support numerous rare, specialized, and endangered species found nowhere else. Globally, they are vital for climate regulation, serving as significant carbon storage. On a regional scale, peatlands play a key role in managing hydrology, reducing flood risks, and acting as natural pollution filters. Around 33.000 km² of peatlands are protected under the EU Habitats Directive (Annex I).