ClimateJuly 21, 2026
moorland
/ˈmɔːrlənd/
Definition
An open area of uncultivated, often acidic or waterlogged upland habitat characterized by low-growing vegetation like heather and mosses, which serves as a significant natural carbon sink.
Etymology
The word is derived from the Old English 'mōr,' meaning a tract of wasteland or marsh, combined with the suffix '-land.' It originally referred to any open, uncultivated space before narrowing to describe specific types of hilly, heath-covered terrains.
In the news
The article uses 'moorland' in the context of environmental policy and climate change mitigation, noting that conservation efforts for these landscapes may be ineffective.
Criticism of the Renewable Energy Act and the Grid Package + EU Methane Regulation + ETS revision
Read the full article ↗Table.Briefings