Silvestrum Climate Associates and University of Greifswald have developed a new methodology that allows for the estimation of GHG emissions from drained and rewetted peatlands and also accounts for changes in carbon stocks in selected non-peat carbon pools.

This is the first VCS methodology to focus on temperate peatlands. Additionally, it utilizes a unique model known as a GEST, or Greenhouse gas Emission Site Type, approach, which uses direct measurement of ground vegetation composition and water table depth as proxies for peatland GHG emissions.

The methodology is intended for project activities that aim at the rewetting of peatlands that have been drained for forestry, peat extraction or agriculture, but where these activities are no longer occurring. Post-rewetting land use is limited to forestry, agriculture, nature conservation/recreation, or activities limited to those aiming at GHG emission reductions, or a combination of these activities.

The methodology also includes a Fire Reduction Premium which is a default that allows for the crediting of emission reductions from avoiding peat fires, where it can be demonstrated that they have historically occurred in the project area.

The methodology is available for immediate use:

VM0036 Methodology for Rewetting Drained Temperate Peatlands

TO KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST NEWS, SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER