Research Projects

Energy security and environmental sustainability are crucial for emerging nations like India, and peatlands play a significant role in energy sources, climatic conditions, and horticulture. Peatlands, formed from partially or completely decomposed organic matter in wetlands, store a massive amount of carbon, acting as a natural water filter and improving the quality of freshwater. They cover approximately 423 Mha of the Earth's surface and are vital in the fight against climate change. Peatlands store 15-30% of the world's soil carbon and absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide. However, they are at risk of losing their status and becoming a new source of greenhouse gases. Advanced petro-geochemical techniques and isotopic data can help better understand peatlands and their origins. India has a significant peatland area in Kerala, North-East India, Kashmir, Darjeeling, and West Bengal. However, limited research has been conducted in these areas to assess climatic and environmental impacts and source rock characterization for alternate energy sources. studying peatlands in India is essential to understand peat formation conditions, vegetation, carbon storage capacity, and climate changes in the current scenario using advanced petro-geochemical tools.