How can we save the worlds tropical peatland?
Scientists estimate that peatlands around the world hold about 350 billion tonnes of carbon. The tropical peatland of the Congo Basin \u2013 known as Cuvette Centrale - are thought to store the equivalent of 20 years of US fossil fuels emissions.
BBC Africa Correspondent Andrew Harding has been up to his neck in it, witnessing the work being done by scientists to protect it and what might threaten its future. \nHe also hears a warning from Environment Minister, Arlette Soudan-Nonault, about the choices the Republic of Congo faces between preserving the peatlands and making use of its resources to provide a living for its population.
We find out how one simple lesson learned in Indonesia is being shared with countries in Africa and South America to help keep a global promise to protect tropical peatlands. It\u2019s not just about promises though \u2013 financial experts explain why persuading richer countries to pay cash for \u201cwasteland\u201d could be good for all of us.
Presenters Kate Lamble and Neal Razzell are joined by:\nDr Daniel Murdiyarso, Principal Scientist with the Centre for International Forestry Research, Indonesia\nProf Kevin Chika Urama, Chief Economist, African Development Bank\nSara Jane Ahmed, finance advisor to the V20 Group of climate vulnerable countries.
Reporter: Andrew Harding, BBC Africa Correspondent in Cuvette Centrale, Republic of Congo\nProducer: Alex Murray\nResearchers: Natasha Fernandes, Mai Kanaaneh, Kirsteen Knight\nSeries Producer: Alex Lewis\nProduction Coordinators: Sophie Hill, Siobhan Reed\nSound Mix: Tom Brignell\nEditor: Richard Fenton-Smith