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 ‘compost bomb’ 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