Peatlands are a vital part of our natural landscape. they host crucial ecosystems for climate and biodiversity, helping to store massive amounts of carbon while providing unique habitats for rare plants and animals.
Protecting peatlands from unauthorised extraction is therefore important in helping to meet the nation’s climate commitments. At Mallon, we have successfully detected peat extraction using Earth Observation technology.
Identifying Peat Extraction
Using satellite imagery and our processing and visualisation techniques, peat extraction areas were made visible across our sample site. As the images below show:
- Blue ink–like tones highlight recent extraction areas
- Dark blue colours represent recent extraction, while light blue shades indicate older activity
- Structured, defined boundaries are a strong indicator of industrial–scale extraction
- Green areas corresponded to vegetation
- Pink tones show dry ground without vegetation
- Scattered blue pixels often indicate moist or wet areas where extraction has been more dispersed
Why This Matters?
Beyond simple visualisation, satellite data also provides clear evidence of the extent of peat extraction. Measuring this from ground is costly and time–consuming, as access to peat areas is often challenging due to the lack of clear access paths or tracks. Using the maps above, we can quickly identify areas where activity may be occurring, helping to focus follow–up surveys or site inspections only where they are needed.
By turning Earth Observation data into actionable intelligence, we can help safeguard Ireland’s sensitive peatland environments.
