Woody ‘blankets’ are being deployed on Arctic permafrost to reduce carbon emissions

A Canadian start-up, PermaC, is working on a method to prevent greenhouse-gas emissions from thawing permafrost by using an insulating blanket made of woody materials. This innovative approach aims to keep carbon trapped in the soil as the Arctic warms. The company recently tested this method in Canada’s Northwest Territories, where permafrost erosion is a significant issue. The test involved stabilizing the edge of a thawing area with a layer of wood shavings, soil, native seeds, and a coconut husk mat. Initial results are promising, showing no erosion in the blanketed area compared to a 5-meter retreat in the unprotected section. However, measuring the exact amount of CO2 emissions prevented remains a challenge. This method could be a crucial tool in combating climate change if proven effective. QUESTION: How might the success of PermaC’s insulating blanket influence future efforts to combat climate change?