In Ireland, you may hear about“Bog“It’s a typically Irish term that can seem mysterious. To get to the bottom of this strange word (this suspense is going to kill us), you should know that it’s simply an expression that designates a peat bog (wetlands sheltering an extremely rich ecosystem). These “bogs” are absolutely magnificent and are one of the natural resources often exploited by Ireland.
A toubière in Ireland – © James
In Ireland, peatlands are very important ecosystems, guaranteeing the natural balance of the environment. These are natural areas characterized by large expanses of decomposing organic matter. There are high concentrations of vegetation, which weather to become peat, a dark matter comparable to solidified earth.
This material is then used by the Irish as heating fuel in their fireplaces, as an “ingredient” in the distillation of Irish whiskey… and so on.
In short: a bog is an environmental resource unique to Ireland, and has some incredible assets. It sometimes suffers from worrying over-exploitation: so much so that some Irish peatlands have been classified as “protected sites”. Many scientists have sounded the alarm: for them, a bog is a veritable natural treasure. Incredible scientific phenomena still little known to man occur here, and intensive exploitation would harm the planet as well as local biodiversity.
This leads to changes in consciousness. The Irish are becoming increasingly involved in a sustainable energy transition. Peatlands are being abandoned in favor of renewable energies.
If you feel like it, you can visit most of Ireland’s peat bogs. You’ll be able to explore these vast natural expanses and discover the traditional techniques of peat extraction and drying. An exciting visit ahead!
Another important fact: many human bodies have been found mummified in these famous bogs (some dating back to prehistoric times!). The high acidity of the soil tends to “dry out” the bodies and tan the skin… which would result in a virtually intact mummy! A fascinating phenomenon that prompted the National Museum of Ireland to exhibit some of these bodies.
Among the must-see bogs, we would like to highlight the following:
