Bridging Scales in Peat Carbon Dynamics: Leveraging FTIR Spectroscopy for Ecosystem Modeling

Peatlands play a pivotal role in the global carbon cycle, acting as significant reservoirs of organic carbon while simultaneously influencing greenhouse gas (GHG) dynamics. However, our ability to predict carbon turnover across scales remains constrained by the challenges of integrating microscale biochemical processes with ecosystem-scale phenomena.

This project, at its initial stages, aims to integrate Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy into peatland carbon models to address these challenges. By identifying FTIR spectral markers of organic matter decomposition, we plan to investigate the long-term effects of climate and land-use changes on peat carbon quality and GHG emissions. Leveraging preliminary field experiments, we will explore litter and peat decomposition dynamics under varied hydrological conditions and peatland types, linking microscale chemical transformations with large-scale carbon fluxes.

A key goal of this project is to establish a global FTIR spectral database to refine ecosystem models such as Yasso and SUSI. To achieve this, we welcome collaboration and invite researchers to share their FTIR, biochemical, and GHG data to broaden the scope and enhance the precision of these efforts. Together, we aim to develop efficient modelling tools for predicting GHG fluxes and advancing our understanding of peatland carbon dynamics.

Join us to explore how FTIR spectroscopy can advance peatland research, bridge critical gaps between scales, and foster collective progress toward climate change mitigation!