Revitalisation of wetland livelihoods requires the implementation of alternative land-use systems that will allow both agriculture and forestry to thrive under wet conditions. These systems must optimize the use of productive species that are adapted to wetlands, and must also provide viable economic development prospects for local people including investment from the carbon sector.
Wet and healthy peatlands are the only sustainable pathway to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, fires and peatland degradation, and preventing the loss of livelihoods. Fortunately, recent research shows that integrated wetland production systems can combine the production of different types of food, fuel, fibre and forest products, and create income-generating practices that promote resilience.
