Moss as an ecological resource

But that is not the only way in which Lisdodde combats carbon emissions. In fact, it can also ensure that peat is not excavated in peatlands in other parts of the world. Indeed, much potting soil used at horticultural companies, but also at your home, consists of peat soil. To this end, the Netherlands imports some 4 million cubic metres of peat per year from the Baltic states, Russia and other countries. The excavation of peat, like natural subsidence, releases a lot of CO2. By adding bulrush to this soil, less peat needs to be excavated for the same quantity of potting soil.

In addition, the plant can also increase biodiversity in the area where it grows. The plant purifies the soil and water of phosphate and nitrogen, which has been drawn into the soil by fertilisation. This in turn makes it an attractive area for various (protected) animals, such as ring snakes and natterjack toads. There is, however, a downside to this story. If we start using paludiculture on a large scale in the Netherlands, it will cause many species to become more common, or we will see new species. On the other hand, existing species will have to adapt to a new habitat. These species actually enjoy the relatively dry, green pastures. With increased use of paludiculture, these species will decrease in numbers or disappear altogether from Dutch nature.