### Germany's Wetland Restoration: A Hidden Solution for Climate Change

As the U.N. climate summit in Azerbaijan focuses on traditional carbon emitters like coal and natural gas, German scientists and the government are exploring a novel climate solution—restoring farmland back to wetlands. This method could play a critical role in reducing carbon emissions by addressing an often-overlooked source of carbon dioxide.

Reporter Dan Charles recently visited Jarg Espig's farm on Germany’s Baltic Sea coast to understand this transformative approach. Espig led Charles to a crucial dividing line on his farm where regular farmland meets peatland. The difference was palpable; stepping into the peatland, the ground became noticeably softer and spongier. This land, historically a marsh, has been drained for decades, lowering the peatland several feet in some spots compared to adjacent farmland.

Franziska Tanneberger from the University of Greifswald explained the fragile nature of peatland soil, which consists of centuries-old vegetation submerged in water. Draining these lands exposes the carbon-rich soil to oxygen, triggering a slow combustion process that releases carbon dioxide—a major contributor to climate change. Tanneberger pointed out that if these peatlands emitted visible smoke, the urgency to address the issue would be undeniable.

Peatlands, covering 3% of the earth's surface, represent a significant carbon reservoir, holding more carbon than all the world's forests combined. Yet, when drained, each acre of peatland releases as much greenhouse gas annually as driving 25,000 miles in a typical car. In northeastern Germany alone, drained peatlands account for 40% of the region's greenhouse gas emissions and contribute 7% nationwide.

However, there is hope. Tanneberger highlighted local efforts where dikes have been moved inland, allowing water to reflood the soil and halt carbon emissions. She is optimistic that similar initiatives could be replicated globally, though the challenge remains significant due to farmland ownership. Farmers like Espig face economic dilemmas; wetting the land renders it unusable for conventional farming practices such as grazing cattle or using tractors.

Espig argues that while farmers are primarily focused on livelihood, they might be willing to adapt if provided with viable alternatives. German authorities have experimented with compensating farmers for converting their lands back into wetlands or purchasing peatlands outright. Some farmers have even adopted specialized techniques to harvest hay from waterlogged fields.

Despite these efforts, the majority of Germany’s peatlands remain dry and continue to emit carbon dioxide. According to Tanneberger, meeting Germany’s climate goals necessitates rewetting all these lands. The challenge is substantial, but the potential climate benefits could be monumental.