A woolly solution to NI's peatland problems?

A pilot project in the Antrim Hills is testing logs made from local sheep wool as a novel method to aid peatland restoration in Northern Ireland. Traditionally, coir logs made from imported coconut husks have been used to reduce erosion, retain water, and re-wet degraded peatlands. However, these coir logs come with a high carbon footprint due to their importation from Southeast Asia. The new wool logs aim to provide a more sustainable, local, and renewable alternative while supporting both environmental goals and the regional sheep farming industry. Northern Ireland’s peatlands cover about 12% of the land and are crucial carbon sinks when healthy. Unfortunately, 86% of these peatlands are currently degraded, releasing carbon instead of storing it, which exacerbates climate change. Restoring these ecosystems is therefore a priority, but existing conservation methods have relied heavily on imported materials like coir, which add to the carbon cost of restoration efforts. Ulster Wildlife and the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) are collaborating on this initiative, with hopes that wool logs can effectively contribute to peatland recovery while reducing environmental impact. The project also presents a potential economic benefit for local sheep farmers, who have faced declining wool prices and limited markets for their wool. Stephanie Clokey, the UFU’s peatlands officer, described the initiative as a “win-win” that could transform wool—previously considered a waste product—into a valuable resource. This collaboration highlights innovative approaches to environmental management that integrate agricultural communities. The wool logs, described as large, soft, wool-filled structures, function similarly to draft excluders by stabilizing peatland surfaces and aiding water retention. This development aligns with Northern Ireland’s recently launched peatland strategy, which outlines 26 actions aimed at restoring semi-natural peatlands by 2040. The strategy emphasizes the need for significant financial investment and innovative solutions to meet restoration targets. If successful, the wool log project could become a model for sustainable peatland conservation that supports both climate goals and rural economies.