“Whilst we are appalled to see the continuation of burning of moorland in the Peak District, we welcome the news that monitoring of the uplands has led to the Midhope Moor estate pleading guilty to six counts of breaching regulations and undertaking burning without a licence, resulting in fines of £2,645.
Upland peat bogs provide endless benefits for climate, wildlife and water. Not only do they store carbon, but they also reduce flood risk downstream, purify drinking water and slow the spread of wildfires when looked after properly.
Peatlands in the uplands and lowlands are incredibly important for wildlife and are home to many rare and endangered species. Burning of moorland vegetation on peat damages them threatening their survival and the wider ecosystem functions that they support.
The prosecution in this case stated that moorland here is in an un-favourable condition and repeated burning is holding recovery back, with the judge also commenting on the sensitive nature of the landscape and that the impact was significant.
Peatlands play an important role in meeting both UK climate targets and global environmental responsibilities. Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and Sheffield Wildlife Trust want to see a complete end to moorland and peat burning and sustainable alternatives put in place, such as vegetation cutting to create firebreaks and new areas of heather growth.”
Matt Buckler, Director of Natural Solutions