The gradual phase-out of peat due to its environmental consequences will have socio-economic impacts on industries reliant on peat. Wetland farming may appear promising in theory, but its overall sustainability remains largely unknown. Therefore, this project aims to assess the socio-economic as well as environmental sustainability of various types of wetland farming practices in peatlands in the South Savo region. The assessment will involve stakeholder participation and the utilize the tools such as eco-efficiency index.
Project period:
1.9.2023-31.12.2025
Project funding:
South Savo Regional Council
Suur-Savon Energiasäätiö,
Mikkeli University Consortium (MUC)
Goals
The goal of the project is to assess the socio-economic and environmental transition towards sustainable peat extraction in South Savo.
- The project involves mapping out the decommissioned peatlands in the South Savo region that require land management. It also includes conducting a literature review on potential products, such as using reed canary grass as animal bedding and utilizing willow for energy and biochar production.
- Additionally, the project aims to evaluate the economic viability and socio-economic aspects of producing alternative biomasses on decommissioned peatlands.
- In the next phase of the research, the objective is to assess the eco-efficiency of alternative post-use scenarios through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Costing (LCC) in terms of carbon footprint and overall lifecycle costs.
Contact information
Partners
