How can we save the world’s tropical peatland?
The tropical peatlands of Cuvette Centrale in the Congo Basin are “the lungs of the planet” but also under increasing threat from exploration for financial gain.
Scientists estimate that peatlands around the world hold about 350 billion tonnes of carbon. The tropical peatland of the Congo Basin – known as Cuvette Centrale - are thought to store the equivalent of 20 years of US fossil fuels emissions.
ѿý Africa Correspondent Andrew Harding has been up to his neck in it, witnessing the work being done by scientists to protect it and what might threaten its future.
He also hears a warning from Environment Minister, Arlette Soudan-Nonault, about the choices the Republic of Congo faces between preserving the peatlands and making use of its resources to provide a living for its population.
We find out how one simple lesson learned in Indonesia is being shared with countries in Africa and South America to help keep a global promise to protect tropical peatlands. It’s not just about promises though – financial experts explain why persuading richer countries to pay cash for “wasteland” could be good for all of us.
Presenters Kate Lamble and Neal Razzell are joined by:
Dr Daniel Murdiyarso, Principal Scientist with the Centre for International Forestry Research, Indonesia
Prof Kevin Chika Urama, Chief Economist, African Development Bank
Sara Jane Ahmed, finance advisor to the V20 Group of climate vulnerable countries.
Reporter: Andrew Harding, ѿý Africa Correspondent in Cuvette Centrale, Republic of Congo
Producer: Alex Murray
Researchers: Natasha Fernandes, Mai Kanaaneh, Kirsteen Knight
Series Producer: Alex Lewis
Production Coordinators: Sophie Hill, Siobhan Reed
Sound Mix: Tom Brignell
Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith
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Broadcasts
- Mon 27 Jun 2022 01:32GMTѿý World Service
- Mon 27 Jun 2022 08:06GMTѿý World Service
- Mon 27 Jun 2022 12:32GMTѿý World Service East and Southern Africa, South Asia, West and Central Africa & East Asia only
- Mon 27 Jun 2022 19:06GMTѿý World Service except East and Southern Africa & West and Central Africa
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