In order to prevent peat oxidation and mitigate CO2 emissions, Katingan Mentaya Project is taking part in regular and intensive efforts to restore peatland hydrology.
Peatlands have been subjected to artificial drainage for centuries as a response to agricultural demand, forestry, horticulture, and alleviation of flood risks. Construction of drainage canals is also associated with the peatland’s conversion to other land uses, such as oil palm plantations and pulpwood trees, or to facilitate timber transport through the canal’s waterways. However, there are several environmental problems associated with the drainage of peatlands. Once peat is drained, it oxidises due to microbial activity and releases stored carbon to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide. In severe cases, drainage may also increase the occurrence of peat fires.
In order to prevent peat oxidation and mitigate CO2 emissions, Katingan Mentaya Project is taking part in regular and intensive efforts to restore peatland hydrology. These efforts are done primarily by maintaining the condition of peatlands through rewetting activities that aim to rehabilitate hydrologically degraded peatland to a near natural state done by canal blocking, canal backfilling, and construction of deep wells.
“Rewetting is one of ways to prevent fires and peat oxidation by microbial decomposition. Due to its high permeability, peat acts as a sponge that shrinks when dried and swells when rewetted”, says Aryo, Katingan Mentaya Project Hydrology Specialist, “Therefore, one of the most important peatland restoration measures is blocking of drainage canals by dams and thus raising the groundwater level of the surrounding peatland”.
All over Katingan Mentaya Project’s concession area, hydrological restoration activities have been carried out in the former degraded areas to minimize the peatswamp’s vulnerability towards fires. The progress of rewetting is also closely monitored to see the effectiveness of the activities.
Buy carbon credits from Katingan
Climate change is a global challenge that requires global action. We can help you meet your commitments to deliver a brighter future.