2012-06-15 08:22:00

Resolution from the 14th International Peat Congress, 3 - 8 June 2012 in Stockholm, Sweden

The 14th International Peat Congress “Peatlands in Balance” provided an excellent opportunity for 600 delegates to discuss current knowledge under ten themes, related to the economic, social and environmental attributes of peatlands.

The presentations and discussions contributed to a better understanding and awareness of the values of our tremendous peatland resources worldwide. The Congress provided an opportunity to dialogue on these challenges ranging from issues related to better growing medium, crops and trees to global climate change. A clear outcome of this Congress is that while the peat family shares many common interests, not all values are in balance.

In order to respond to these concerns, IPS commits to:

  • strengthening communications to all members and between all interest groups associated with the advancement of peatland knowledge and practical cooperation
  • a purposeful outreach targeting emerging peatland resource institutions, economic development structures and societal bodies from our global community
  • a critical review of our internal corporate structure and its ability to meet the collective challenges
  • an overview of international conventions related to social, economic and environmental values affecting peatlands
  • providing peatland policies based on scientific knowledge to be used, as appropriate, in national and international decision-making.

The way forward on these tasks will be an undertaking by the IPS Executive Board over the next four years. We will empower our agencies, and call upon our members, to advance the interests expressed at this Congress in the development of responsible peatland management worldwide.

IPS is grateful for the commitment and the energy of the Swedish National Committee and the Congress Organizing Committee, the sponsors and all volunteers in achieving an outstanding Congress. The balancing of different interests, views and values was enabled in an open and stimulating atmosphere. We thank all participants and organizers, once again, on behalf of all members of the IPS peat family.

International Peat Society
Executive Board