The 14th International Peat Congress “Peatlands in Balance” provided an excellent opportunity for

600 delegates to discuss current knowledge under ten themes, related to the economic, social and

environmental attributes of peatlands.





The presentations and discussions contributed to a better understanding and awareness of the

values of our tremendous peatland resources worldwide. The Congress provided an opportunity to

dialogue on these challenges ranging from issues related to better growing medium, crops and

trees to global climate change. A clear outcome of this Congress is that while the peat family

shares many common interests, not all values are in balance.





In order to respond to these concerns, IPS commits to:

· strengthening communications to all members and between all interest groups associated

· with the advancement of peatland knowledge and practical cooperation

· a purposeful outreach targeting emerging peatland resource institutions, economic
 development structures and societal bodies from our global community

· a critical review of our internal corporate structure and its ability to meet the collective challenges

· an overview of international conventions related to social, economic and environmental
values affecting peatlands

· providing peatland policies based on scientific knowledge to be used, as appropriate, in
 national and international decision-making





The way forward on these tasks will be an undertaking by the IPS Executive Board over the next

 four years. We will empower our agencies, and call upon our members, to advance the interests

expressed at this Congress in the development of responsible peatland management worldwide.



IPS is grateful for the commitment and the energy of the Swedish National Committee and the

 Congress Organizing Committee, the sponsors and all volunteers in achieving an outstanding

Congress. The balancing of different interests, views and values was enabled in an open and

 stimulating atmosphere. We thank all participants and organizers, once again, on behalf of all

members of the IPS peat family.