Restoring peatlands: forest to bog transformation in the UK

The smaller project at Clashindarroch in Scotland (approximately 35 ha) was completed in early 2022, while a larger-scale restoration at Pen y Cymoedd in Wales – spanning up to 1500 ha - began in late 2021 and will continue for several years.

At Pen y Cymoedd, Vattenfall is investing £3m in the project and has partnered with the neighbouring Lost Peatlands of South Wales Project, making it one of the largest restoration initiatives of its kind in the country.

Although both projects are mandated by the permits, Vattenfall has also voluntarily funded a three-year research programme at Swansea University to assess the risks and opportunities of wind farm development and peatland restoration on forested peatlands.

Peat restoration within these Habitat Management Plans involves ditch blocking and ground smoothing to raise the water table – an essential step in re-establishing a functioning peat bog. Healthy peatlands can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, store carbon, and increase biodiversity.