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Project Code [2018-CCRP-LS.2]
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Project title
Smart observations of management impacts on peatland function.
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
University of Dublin, Trinity College (TCD)
Lead Applicant
Matthew Saunders
Project Abstract
The SmartBog project will assess the impacts of anthropogenic management activities, such as drainage, on the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and removals from peatland ecosystems. The project will utilise earth observation data from COPERICUS satellite products and near-earth high resolution imagery to identify drainage features and to assess drainage status and peatland habitat across Ireland. From this assessment a series of sites across a drainage gradient will be selected to measure both land-atmosphere, and fluvial carbon and GHG emissions. The latter aspect is of particular importance as these losses can be significant but are generally not reported in the net GHG assessment of terrestrial ecosystems. The point source GHG measurements will also be undertaken at two verification sites equipped with eddy covariance towers to enhance spatial up-scaling and emission reporting from peatland land cover classes. In addition, an Internet of Things (IoT) sensor platform will be established at each site to provide real-time environmental variables used to interpret/predict GHG fluxes and verify EO data. The outputs of this work will be compiled and interrogated using machine learning techniques to provide a stakeholder user interface that can be used to detect change in GHG emissions and removals.
Grant Approved
�497,309.90
Research Hub
Climate Change
Research Theme
Carbon Stocks, GHG Emissions, Sinks and Management Options
Initial Projected Completion Date
28/02/2023