Rare moss returned to moorland

Scientists propagated sphagnum moss in a laboratory before dropping the tiny plant on to the remote moors yesterday.

Due to pollution and wildfires, the moss, described as the "basic building block" of peatlands, had been largely lost from the moors – thereby reducing the effect such landscapes can have on combating climate change.

If the trial proves successful, the "Moors for the Future" group will use the technique to restore more than 2,000 acres of Peak District and South Pennine moorland over the next five years.

Matt Buckler, conservation works manager at Moors for the Future, said: "Sphagnum is the most important peat-forming plant and the glue that holds the whole blanket bog community together. This project is probably the most important innovation ever in moorland restoration techniques."

Jon Stewart from Natural England added: "England's moorland blanket peatlands are a crucial buffer against climate change through their role as a carbon store, but have been extensively damaged by centuries of inappropriate management and pollution.

"We have to stop the rot and ensure that peatlands are properly looked after."