Peatland burning ban aims to protect wildlife and England’s carbon stores

The Flow Country in Caithness and Sutherland, which is regarded by many as being the best blanket bog of its type in the world. Peatland habitats are not only important for nature and wildlife, they are one of our richest carbon stores. Photograph: Murdo MacLeod/The Guardian

Burning vegetation on deep peat will be banned under government plans to protect nature and reduce carbon emissions.

Vegetation on peatland is often burned to create habitat for grouse, which like to feed on the fresh shoots of new plants that grow after the burn. This increases the number of birds available to be shot for sport.