13 March 2014: The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) has produced a series of blog posts highlighting the implementation of a US Agency for International Development (USAID) funded project, titled ‘Sustainable Wetlands Adaptation and Mitigation Program’ (SWAMP), in Peru.

The posts highlight the value of peatlands in Peru and the threats that they face, including from encroachment, overuse and changes to microclimates. According to the reports, Peru has the second largest expanse of tropical peatlands, which play an important role in carbon sequestration, water purification, habitat provision for biodiversity and livelihoods support.

Through the SWAMP project, researchers will inventory peatlands in Peru and estimate their above and below-ground carbon stocks. Such research will, according to the posts, support REDD+ activities in peatlands, facilitate the development of policies and programmes to sustainably manage palm swamps, and ensure sustainable livelihoods.

In addition to inventories and carbon assessments, the project is supporting the development of a slow-growing variety of the aguaje palm with more sustainable fruit harvests and exploring new technologies for assessing carbon storage and fluxes. Technologies employed include infrared monitoring and Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR). CIFOR is a member of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). [CIFOR Blog Post, 11 March 2014] [CIFOR Blog Post, 12 March 2014] [CIFOR Blog Post, 13 March 2014]