New research reveals that Lake Mai Ndombe and Lake Tumba in the Congo Basin are releasing carbon dioxide derived from peat thousands of years old. This suggests that tropical peatlands, previously viewed as stable carbon vaults, may have leaks that allow ancient organic matter to enter the modern atmosphere. The study highlights how water levels and deforestation influence these emissions. Lower water levels during dry seasons can increase methane release, while forest loss may further dry the region, potentially accelerating the breakdown of these massive carbon stores.
