At Common Ground we never use peat moss in our products for several reasons:
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Habitat Loss: Peat moss is harvested from peat bogs, which are fragile ecosystems that support a diverse range of plant and animal species. The harvesting of peat moss can damage these ecosystems, leading to the loss of biodiversity and habitat destruction.
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Carbon Emissions: Peat bogs are important carbon sinks that store large amounts of carbon. When peat bogs are disturbed, either by being drained or excavated for peat moss, carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.
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Slow Regeneration: Peat moss grows very slowly, with a regeneration rate of only 1mm per year. This means that the damage done to peat bogs through harvesting can take centuries to repair, if at all.
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Water Management: Peat bogs play an important role in regulating water levels and quality. When they are drained for peat moss harvesting, this can have negative impacts on downstream water resources.
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Sustainable Alternatives: There are many sustainable alternatives to peat moss that can be used as soil amendments, such as compost, coir, or bark. These materials are often more readily available, less expensive, and more environmentally friendly than peat moss.
By choosing peat-free product, you can help protect the fragile ecosystems that support our planet's biodiversity and contribute to a more sustainable future.