Peat moss, a popular soil amendment for gardeners and the nursery industry, has come under scrutiny for its contribution to climate change. According to an Oregon State University Extension Service soil scientist, the harvesting of peat moss from bogs around the world, especially in Canada and Russia, releases carbon stored for millennia into the atmosphere, exacerbating global warming.
These waterlogged bogs, covering only 5% of Earth's surface, hold more carbon than all the planet's forests combined. As peat moss is harvested, carbon dioxide is released, disrupting this carbon storage system. Moreover, peat moss removal destroys critical habitats for various wildlife species.
Peat moss is known for its use in improving soil drainage and water retention, but it lacks nutrients and attracts fewer essential soil microbes compared to alternatives. Compost, decomposed manure, wood chips, leaves, and perlite are sustainable alternatives, although each comes with its own considerations.
Notably, peat moss will be banned from sale in England by 2024 due to environmental concerns. While some bogs are replanted, the recovery process can take centuries, making peat moss harvesting a questionable renewable practice with long-lasting ecological consequences.
Amid these challenges, gardeners and nurseries are exploring alternatives, including coconut coir and various organic materials. Consumers are advised to scrutinize garden amendments for peat moss content and consider transitioning to more eco-friendly choices to reduce their environmental impact.
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