GARDENERS in Wales will no longer be able to buy peat under new rules introduced by the Welsh Government.

Today’s (Monday, December 5) of a ban on peat sales comes after a public consultation showed 92% of Welsh respondents supported an overall ban of the sale of peat compost.

Whilst there is no current peat extraction in Wales, the move is intended to protect peatlands in Wales in the future. Preventing sales of peat containing products is also in line with the Well-being of Future Generations Act commitment to be globally responsible.

Peatlands are the UK’s largest stores of carbon, support key habitats and species, and can hold large volumes of water.

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When peat is extracted, the carbon stored inside the bog is released as carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change.

A ban will end greenhouse gas emissions from the extraction and use of peat domestically and be key in meeting the Welsh Government’s Net Zero targets.

The Welsh Government will now work with the UK Government on next steps to implement the ban in Wales.

Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths said: “Our peatlands are iconic, and today’s announcement will be key in protecting and restoring them for future generations and supporting the work of the National Peatland Action Programme.

“Carbon dioxide emissions from peat extractions has an impact on climate change and introducing a ban on the retail sale of peat in horticulture will make a real difference.

“The consultation showed strong support for banning peat sales in Wales and we will now work to implement a ban as soon as is practically possible.”