Book Review: ‘Bogland,’ by Merritt R. Turetsky

Merritt R. Turetsky’s debut book, Bogland: The Secret World That Defies Death and Protects Life, reframes misunderstood wetlands as vital ecological marvels rather than barren wastelands. Drawing on three decades of fieldwork, the author illustrates how these waterlogged ecosystems act as powerful carbon sinks, storing massive amounts of the world's soil carbon despite covering only a tiny fraction of Earth's land. The episode explores the unique biology and chemistry of bogs, highlighting their ability to slowly accumulate peat, preserve ancient human history, and support highly specialized, carnivorous flora. Furthermore, the narrative emphasizes the urgent climate threats these landscapes face from human activity, drainage, and climate change, which risk turning essential carbon vaults into dangerous greenhouse gas sources. Ultimately, the work serves as both a rigorous scientific exploration and a passionate conservation plea, urging readers to recognize the planetary value of these overlooked environments.

"Open a book. Discover a world."

This episode includes AI-generated content.