The rate of global warming could lead to a rapid release of carbon from peatlands that would further accelerate global warming. Two recent studies, including one that involves Centre members highlights the risk that this ā€˜compost bombā€™ instability could pose, and calculate the rate-dependent conditions under which it could occur.

http://www.exeter.ac.uk/news/featurednews/title,115755,en.html

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-501465_162-20024255-501465.html