Using peat as a fertilization material poses several significant environmental and agricultural problems:

(i) Environmental Impact: Peatlands are crucial carbon sinks, storing vast amounts of carbon that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere. Harvesting peat for use in gardening and agriculture disrupts these ecosystems, releasing stored carbon dioxide and contributing to global warming. This process accelerates climate change and undermines efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

(iI) Non-Renewable Resource: Peat forms over thousands of years, making it a non-renewable resource on a human timescale. The rate at which peat is harvested far exceeds its natural regeneration, leading to the depletion of peatlands. This unsustainable practice threatens the long-term availability of peat and the ecological balance of peatland areas.

(iii) Habitat Destruction: Peatlands provide unique habitats for a variety of plant and animal species. Harvesting peat destroys these habitats, leading to a loss of biodiversity. Species that depend on peatland ecosystems, such as certain birds and plants, are put at risk.

(iv) Soil Health Issues: While peat is valued for its ability to retain moisture, it has several drawbacks when used as a soil amendment. Peat can compact easily, reducing soil aeration and making it difficult for plant roots to access oxygen. This compaction can lead to poor root development and overall plant health.

(v) Fire Hazard: Peat is highly flammable, and peat fires can be challenging to control. These fires release large amounts of carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the atmosphere, further exacerbating environmental issues.

There are more sustainable alternatives to peat to be examined, that can improve soil health and fertility and, in parallel, support decarbonization. For example, organic matter from farming residues can provide similar benefits without a negative environmental impact.

These alternatives support the principles of the circular economy by recycling organic waste and reducing reliance on non-renewable resources. Transitioning to more sustainable options is essential for protecting our ecosystems and promoting a healthier planet.

Substituting peat with more sustainable alternatives for fertilization is crucial for promoting environmental health and supporting the circular economy.

In the current challenge are requested satisfactory responses on the following:

• How efficient can be the substitution of peat by materials like the above

Which are the most proper materials and which are the critical processes to achieve or to avoid.

Intermunicipal Solid Waste Management Company

Rethymno municipality, Western Crete, Greece.