Grant: Canada Research Chairs

Wetland ecosystems store a globally significant amount of carbon in their soils and sediment and they exchange greenhouse gases (GHGs) with the atmosphere, including methane. Actions that protect this stored carbon or restore degraded wetlands can result in GHG emission reductions, contributing to climate action strategies. Canada is home to 20% of the world’s wetlands, creating an opportunity for effective stewardship of this critical carbon stock. Dr. Maria Strack’s Canada Research Chair in Wetland Climate Solutions seeks to quantify the potential GHG emissions reductions from improved wetland management. Building on her multisectoral research network, Dr. Strack and her team will improve estimates of GHG emissions arising from agricultural and industrial impact to wetlands to determine potential emission reductions from avoiding future wetland disturbance. Her team will also assess best management practices to reduce GHG emissions during wetland disturbance and quantify the benefits of wetland restoration. Results will create the knowledge and tools needed for climate-friendly wetland management.