GHG monitoring in wetlands

While 4,9% of Latvia’s territory is covered by unharmed wetlands, peat bogs lie in 10,4% of the territory. Considering that the nature processes in wetlands are strongly related to circulation of greenhouse gases (GHG), they are essential part of the area. Previous studies showcase that the methods for monitoring of GHG emissions are expensive and time-consuming. Using airborne remote sensing approach, it is possible to develop more cost-efficient and precise solutions for GHG evaluations in wetland areas.

The Aim:

To develop innovative GHG emissions evaluation methodology for wetland monitoring, which is based on remote sensing and could be used for future habitat restoration activities in Latvia. Furthermore, to elaborate efficient alternative for current GHG emission analysis methods.

Activities

To reach the objective the project team will implement the following activities:

• Airborne remote sensing data collection in the wetlands that are parts of Slītere National park, Lake Engure Nature park, Gauja National park, Augstrozes Nature Reserve;
• Field data sampling for remote sensing data verification and adapting of the GEST (Greenhause Gas Emission Site Types) method;
• Remote sensing data classification according to the GEST method;
• Validation of the results of wetland restoration activities in Latvia;
• Development of recommendation for GHG monitoring in wetlands.

Outcomes:

• Remote sensing methodology for GHG emissions in wetlands (in Latvian) 

Project duration: 04.2018. – 09.2019.

Leading partner: Institute of Environmental Solutions

Cooperation partner: Nature Conservation Agency

Project manager: Rūta Abaja, ruta.abaja@videsinstituts.lv, +371 27818676

Funded by: Administration of Latvian Environmental Protection Fund