Dissertation FIndings

The aim of this report was to evaluate the impacts of excavation and floating road construction on upland peatland environments.

Assumptions:

  • Organic matter content was considered uniform across the tested peatland area.
  • Drainage effects were assumed to be consistent on both sides of the excavated and floating road.
  • Ash content and organic matter were assumed unaffected by depth in relation to excavation.
  • The water table was assumed to be at the surface prior to excavation.

Key Findings:

  • Excavation impacts: Excavation significantly altered peat conditions. Drainage reduced water volume near the excavation, compressing the peat and increasing average organic matter volume. With distance from the excavation, water volume recovered, porosity increased, and organic matter volume decreased.
  • Porosity changes: Compression near the excavation reduced porosity, while recovery occurred further away.
  • Oxidation effects: Increased ash content indicated oxidation near the excavation face, contributing to peat subsidence. This was most evident within 4m of the excavation.
  • Depth hypothesis: The assumption that ash and organic matter remained consistent with depth was confirmed, as shown by site comparisons.
  • Environmental comparison: Excavated road construction produced 74.5% higher CO₂ emissions than floating road construction due to greater peat removal, exposure of organic matter, and enhanced oxidation from drainage.
  • Broader impact: While access road construction contributes to emissions, these are minimal compared to the CO₂ offset during wind turbine operation.

Conclusion:
Floating road construction presents clear environmental advantages over excavation, significantly reducing peat disturbance and CO₂ emissions. Although peatlands are highly sensitive, they can support renewable energy development—such as wind farms—when careful planning and sustainable construction methods are applied. Northern Ireland, with its abundant wind resources, is well-placed to benefit from such practices, ensuring that future projects maximise renewable energy potential while minimising environmental harm.