Tropical peatlands, particularly in Southeast Asia, are significant sources of greenhouse gas emissions, acting as net emitters rather than carbon sinks as previously believed. Research by Hokkaido University (2026) revealed that even intact, waterlogged peat forests release more carbon dioxide and methane than they absorb. Human drainage for agriculture increases these emissions more than sixfold.
Tropical peatlands, particularly in Southeast Asia, are significant sources of greenhouse gas emissions, acting as net emitters rather than carbon sinks as previously believed. Research by Hokkaido University (2026) revealed that even intact, waterlogged peat forests release more carbon dioxide and methane than they absorb. Human drainage for agriculture increases these emissions more than sixfold.
Key Findings on Tropical Peatland Emissions:-
Net Emitters: -
Intact tropical peat swamp forests in Sumatra, Borneo, and the Malay Peninsula were found to be net sources of greenhouse gases, challenging their long-term classification as carbon sinks.
Impact of Drainage:-
Draining these forests for agriculture lowers water tables and accelerates peat decomposition, resulting in nearly three times more greenhouse gas emissions than natural states.
Climate Impact: -
Total emissions from these regions are estimated to be equivalent to about 30% of Japan’s annual greenhouse gas output.
Extreme Events:-
Droughts linked to El Niño events further increase annual emissions by approximately 16%.
Significance: -
While covering only about 3% of land, tropical peatlands store immense amounts of carbon; their degradation makes them a major, growing source of global emissions.
The research suggests that proper management, such as maintaining high water tables, is critical to reducing these emissions.
MJF Lion ER YK Sharma
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