Urgent call for a peat reduction strategy and against the expansion of peat extraction

Peatlands are vital for climate regulation, water management and biodiversity conservation. Yet peat extraction for horticultural growing media continues, despite its substantial greenhouse gas emissions and the availability of alternatives. Recent industry calls to simplify the regulatory framework for peat extraction and use underscore the importance of a clear, long-term European policy.This position paper calls for a binding European strategy to progressively reduce peat use in horticulture and phase out peat extraction. Its recommendations include:- Immediately protecting natural and semi-natural peatlands from extraction and preventing illegal extraction.- Ending new extraction permits and permit extensions by 2030 at the latest, and phasing out peat extraction by 2050.- Introducing binding, sector-specific targets for reducing peat use, including a ban on peat in the hobby gardening market by 2030.- Supporting sustainable peat alternatives, supply chains, research and paludiculture, alongside a fair transition for affected growers and regions.- Improving transparency, consumer information and accountability for the environmental costs of peat use.The statement builds on the 2023 Power to the Peatlands declaration and is supported by an international coalition of scientific experts, environmental organisations and other stakeholders.The full document contains the collectively endorsed position, its scientific references and the list of signatories. It is intended to inform European and national policymakers, conservation organisations, horticultural stakeholders and the wider public.Keywords: Peatlands; peat extraction; peat-free horticulture; growing media; peat substitution; climate mitigation; EU environmental policy; nature restoration; paludiculture; policy statementProposed additional noteThis document presents the collectively endorsed position of the signatories listed in the full text. The statement was developed through a collaborative process coordinated by Stichting Turfvrij. The text is preserved as endorsed. Separately published summaries and communication materials do not constitute amendments to the original statement.Contact: [email protected]