ForPeat
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FORest PEATtland ecosystem assessment and targeted management for enhanced carbon sequestration, biodiversity and water quality
Total cost € 9 999 470.00 EU contribution € 9 999 470.00 Funding Programme Horizon Europe - Mission Soil

ForPeat is an ambitious research project that will advance science-based approaches to optimise the management of forested peatland. At its core, the project will showcase innovative, sustainable forest practices and nature restoration goals on peat soils, focusing on rewetting and water conservation techniques. These demonstrations will serve as Open Labs, illustrating how to balance climate positivity with biodiversity enhancement. A key aspect of ForPeat assesses the carbon sequestration benefits of forested peatlands in relation to their management and how forest harvesting impacts nutrient cycles, sediment movement, dissolved organic carbon exports from forest peat soils and biodiversity. This comprehensive analysis will provide crucial indicators and baselines to maximise climate change mitigation, adaptation, and biodiversity conservation. To stay at the forefront of environmental monitoring, ForPeat will integrate AI and robotics into remote-sensing and field-data collection methods. ForPeat will explore how these demonstrated activities can be replicated and scaled up, with a focus on developing financial incentives under the EU certification framework. This research will translate into practical recommendations for policymakers and land managers. The project is built on collaboration, employing a multi-actor approach that brings together diverse stakeholders from landowners and foresters to scientists, public authorities, and industry representatives. This inclusive strategy ensures all relevant voices are considered throughout the project's lifecycle, aiming to pave the way for a more sustainable, resilient future for forested peatlands.

HORIZON-MISS-2024-SOIL-01

Thematic areas

Biodiversity Carbon farming

Project contribution to Mission Soil’s:

Specific objectives

  • 1. Reduce land degradation relating to desertification
    Not targeted
  • 2. Conserve and increase soil organic carbon stocks
    Targeted
  • 3. No net soil sealing and increase the reuse of urban soils
    Not targeted
  • 4. Reduce soil pollution and enhance restoration
    Not targeted
  • 5. Prevent erosion
    Not targeted
  • 6. Improve soil structure to enhance habitat quality for soil biota and crops
    Targeted
  • 7. Reduce the EU global footprint on soils
    Not targeted
  • 8. Increase soil literacy in society across Member States
    Not targeted

Operational objectives

  • 1. Build capacities and the knowledge base for soil stewardship
    Not targeted
  • 2. Co-create and upscale place-based innovations to improve soil health in all places
    Partially targeted
  • 3. Develop an integrated EU soil monitoring system and track progress towards soil health
    Partially targeted
  • 4. Engage with the soil user community and society at large
    Partially targeted

Innovation hotspots

  • 1. Carbon farming
    Targeted
  • 2. Soil pollution and restoration
    Not targeted
  • 3. Soil biodiversity including the microbiome
    Targeted
  • 4. Circular economy solutions
    Not targeted

Cross-cutting dimensions

  • 1. Business
    Not targeted
  • 2. Digital
    Targeted
  • 3. Territorial
    Not targeted
  • 4. International
    Not targeted

© European Union, 2024. Image sources: Adobe.Stock.com