• November 13, 2025

Peatland Perspectives: restoring nature’s climate heroes for tomorrow

Peatland restoration across Europe was the main focus of the Peatland Perspectives symposium, held in Zwolle from October 8 to 10, 2025. The event brought together about 200 participants – including policy makers, land managers, advisors and practitioners – from all over Europe. This symposium was organized by four LIFE projects working together on peatland restoration in Overijssel, Friesland, Drenthe, and North Rhine-Westphalia. Hosted at the Provincial House in Zwolle, Peatland Perspectives aimed to support the complex challenge of European peatland restoration by offering diverse perspectives and creating space for open dialogue, knowledge exchange, and cross-sector collaboration.

The first day of the symposium was marked by a range of interesting contributions, covering topics like the European Nature Restoration Law and Denmark’s green transition. Keynote speaker Inken Breum Larsen took us on a journey through the Danish approach to nature restoration. One of her advices: strive for mutual gains. Additionally, the role of peatlands in tackling climate change and protecting biodiversity was being addressed. One of the most memorable insights came from emeritus professor Hans Joosten, who reminded us that ‘Peatlands are essential allies in the fight against climate change.”

Day 2 of the symposium offered a deep dive into practical tools and approaches for peatland restoration. One breakout session focused on low-emission restoration techniques, as applied in the Fochteloërveen, made possible through the Peat Pals for LIFE project. Other sessions explored the value of nature restoration through concepts like biodiversity credits. Participants also discussed innovative ways of working together - such as collaborations between farmers and nature practitioners, or between land managers and researchers. The day ended on an inspiring note with a presentation by our project monitor, Moira Wilputte, who shared valuable insights into the LIFE programme and its crucial role in helping achieve Europe’s climate and biodiversity goals.

Peatland Perspectives concluded in a hands-on way with field visits to the raised bog areas at the heart of the four LIFE-projects that made this event possible: Aamsveen, Witte Veen, Fochteloërveen, and Engbertsdijksvenen. Participants had the opportunity to take a closer look at how climate, biodiversity, cultural history, nature management, and recreation all connect to peatland areas.

At least one thing became very clear during the symposium: we need a shared and clear narrative about peatlands - one that we must communicate clearly and consistently. As the troubadour among us sang, “Peatlands need some PR”! Following this message, we as Peat Pals for LIFE continue communicating about the urgency and importance of the restoration efforts in our nature sites – for nature, climate and future generations.

#LIFE #PeatlandPerspectives #PeatPalsforLIFE #LIFEMultiPeat #AddMIRELIFE #LIFECrossBorderBog #Natura2000 #EUBiodiversity