The role of Gornyi Zhurnal in the establishment, development and future prospects of the peat industry in Russia

The article undertakes a retrospective analysis of publications in Gornyi Zhurnal (Russian for Mining Journal) addressing the extraction, processing and utilization of peat resources over a period of two centuries, from the Journal’s foundation to the present day. The main thematic areas covered include: geology and exploration of peat deposits; peat extraction and raw material quality improvement; machinery and equipment for peat production; integrated peat processing; the use of peat-based products in metallurgical processes; recycling of livestock waste and enhancement of soil fertility; and environmental protection and reclamation of worked-out peatlands. In the first half of the 19th century, the peat-related articles in Gornyi Zhurnal were primarily translations of foreign language periodicals. These had a notable influence on the formation of the Russian peat industry. In subsequent decades, there was a steady increase in the number of contributions from Russian specialists. The article highlights the Journal’s system-forming role in supporting the peat sector in Russia, particularly during periods when the industry lacked its own dedicated scientific and technical publications. An overview is also provided of the current practical applications and the most promising scientific and technological trends in the peat research and industry as reflected in recent issues of Gornyi Zhurnal.