• February 13, 2026

Greenhouse gas measurements in Alder swamp forests

It has long been known that peatlands emit greenhouse gases due to desiccation. However, to really know how much CO2 a peatland emits requires a considerable amount of research. Within LIFE Multi Peat, we measure greenhouse gas emissions in peat forests. Very little is known about the emissions of peat forests, and the figures that are available mainly cover slightly different forest types in Eastern Europe. These measurements will enable us to make a much better estimate of both CO2 and methane (and perhaps also nitrous oxide) emissions in Flemish peat forests, whether they are in a dried-out state, recently rewetted or fully restored.

 

To measure these greenhouse gases, we use the so-called “closed chamber method”, which is basically a large jar placed over a piece of vegetation. This jar is then connected to a gas analyser that uses a laser to count the number of CO2 particles. This allows us to see the change in CO2 concentration over time. After 3 minutes, we have an estimate of the emissions and the next plot can be measured. All measurements are taken at 3 different plots per location with different amounts of light, ranging from 100% light to complete darkness. In addition to effective CO2 measurements, samples are also taken for methane and nitrous oxide. These samples are collected every 15 minutes for 1 hour and analysed by the University of Ghent (Faculty of Bioscience Engineering). 

Along with these changes in greenhouse gas concentrations, a whole range of environmental parameters are also continuously monitored, such as soil temperature, soil moisture, precipitation, PAR, temperature, etc. In this way, within a year (after measuring greenhouse gases on a monthly basis), we can model how much is currently being emitted in a year, taking into account differences between seasons, weather conditions, day and night, etc. 

 

Calculating the exact amount of CO2 that is stored or emitted and the amount of methane and nitrous oxide that is released is crucial to restoring our peatlands as effectively as possible. The results of this research will enable us to restore alder swamp forests even more effectively in the future and thus work towards a robust and climate-proof natural environment.