Researchers have developed a groundbreaking unified theory of “bog physics” that calculates the amount of carbon stored in peatlands worldwide. This discovery is crucial in the fight against climate change, as peatlands store more carbon than all of the Earth’s trees combined. By using a mathematical model to predict the shape and carbon storage of peat bogs, scientists can now accurately quantify the impact of draining or restoring these vital ecosystems. The surprising success of this model in diverse regions has sparked a new wave of interest in peat bog modeling, with various groups exploring the complex dynamics that govern these unique environments.
https://www.quantamagazine.org/simple-equation-predicts-the-shapes-of-carbon-capturing-wetlands-20240528/