Community-centred approaches to peatland use and management: Insights from a rapid evidence synthesis review

Lowland peatlands are ecosystems of global importance for regulating global climate, as biodiversity hotspots, and for supporting local livelihoods. Despite their significance, the social and economic benefits derived from lowland peatland use and management are poorly studied from the perspective of local and Indigenous communities. To address this, a Rapid Evidence Synthesis methodology was employed to evaluate peer-reviewed papers published between 2000 and 2025. Searches were conducted in two major databases (Scopus and Web of Science) using predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria based on geography (tropical and/or temperate), populations (local and/or Indigenous communities), and outcomes (social, economic, ecological, and/or environmental benefits). The searches yielded 265 titles in Scopus and 211 in Web of Science. After merging and removing duplicates, a total of 378 articles remained, which were then screened for relevance. Studies focusing solely on wetlands without mention of peat, boreal, or highland environments were excluded, as well as non-peatland contexts like urban areas and urban farming. Thirty-one articles were selected for full-text review. Findings from this review highlight a diverse range of strategies and interventions that support more equitable socioeconomic outcomes in lowland peatland management. In Southeast Asia, interventions mainly focused on restoring degrading peatlands, whereas in South America, efforts concentrated on the sustainable use of natural resources. Regions such as Africa, the Arctic, Europe, North America, and Oceania were underrepresented in peer-reviewed studies concerning community involvement and perceptions of lowland peatland conservation and management. In summary, the literature underscores the urgent need to promote inclusive restoration and sustainable peatland management by integrating the knowledge of civil societies and local and Indigenous communities, securing community rights, and supporting diversified and adaptive livelihoods. Moreover, strengthening governance and equity, implementing locally tailored measures, and improving market access for peatland-managed products are essential for the long-term conservation of peatlands and livelihoods.