Peatlands are unique ecosystems with great potential for mitigating climate change. They are also among the fastest disappearing natural habitats. A degraded peatland stops storing carbon and releases it back into the atmosphere. A drained peatland degrades very quickly.
In Poland, wetlands cover approximately 1.3 million hectares, but only 15% have retained their natural functions. Their protection means protection against drought, floods, and climate change.
The project (2022–2032) covers over 240,000 hectares of wetlands, peatlands, and wet areas in Natura 2000 and Green Infrastructure areas across 17 habitat types:
