How can we save the world’s tropical peatland?

Scientists estimate that peatlands around the world hold about
350 billion tonnes of carbon. The tropical peatland of the Congo
Basin – known as Cuvette Centrale - are thought to store the
equivalent of 20 years of US fossil fuels emissions.


BBC Africa Correspondent Andrew Harding has been up to his neck
in it, witnessing the work being done by scientists to protect it
and what might threaten its future. He also hears a warning from
Environment Minister, Arlette Soudan-Nonault, about the choices
the Republic of Congo faces between preserving the peatlands and
making use of its resources to provide a living for its
population.


We find out how one simple lesson learned in Indonesia is being
shared with countries in Africa and South America to help keep a
global promise to protect tropical peatlands. It’s not just about
promises though – financial experts explain why persuading richer
countries to pay cash for “wasteland” could be good for all of
us.


Presenters Kate Lamble and Neal Razzell are joined by: Dr Daniel
Murdiyarso, Principal Scientist with the Centre for International
Forestry Research, Indonesia Prof Kevin Chika Urama, Chief
Economist, African Development Bank Sara Jane Ahmed, finance
advisor to the V20 Group of climate vulnerable countries.


Reporter: Andrew Harding, BBC Africa Correspondent in Cuvette
Centrale, Republic of Congo Producer: Alex Murray Researchers:
Natasha Fernandes, Mai Kanaaneh, Kirsteen Knight Series Producer:
Alex Lewis Production Coordinators: Sophie Hill, Siobhan Reed
Sound Mix: Tom Brignell Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith