How Much Heather Moorland is in the UK? Rethinking the 75% Figure
- Rob Beeson
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
A major scientific review critically examines ten common claims regarding the effects of prescribed heather burning on peatlands in the UK, with " 75% of global heather moorland is found in the UK" being the sixth claim reviewed.
The authors, including Dr. Andreas Heinemeyer, consider the claim to be unsubstantiated.
For many years, it has been said that the UK holds around 75% of the world’s heather moorland. This figure has been used by conservation groups, government departments, and land managers alike. However, a recent scientific review has questioned its accuracy, noting that the figure is based on old data and uncertain definitions.
Where the 75% Figure Came From
The 75% claim appears to have originated in the late 1990s, based on calculations from various European countries. It did not take into account heather moorland in places such as Ireland, Estonia, and Finland, or even further afield in countries like Australia and New Zealand, where heather is non-native but still widespread.
Another difficulty lies in definitions. The term “upland moorland vegetation” used in early calculations was broad and imprecise. Since then, systems such as the European Nature Information System (EUNIS) have highlighted a far wider variety of land cover classes that may or may not be counted as “heather moorland.”
What the Review Found
The review highlighted three main points:
Incomplete coverage - The original estimate looked at too few countries to be reliable.
Inconsistent definitions - “Heather moorland” can mean different things depending on classification systems.
Large uncertainties - Newer evidence suggests the percentage could be lower than 75%.
Despite these issues, the review makes clear that the UK still holds a very significant share of the world’s heather moorland.
Why It Still Matters
What this debate shows is the importance of clear definitions and robust evidence. While the exact percentage may never be certain, the underlying truth is not in doubt: UK heather moorlands are rare on a global scale and remain of outstanding importance.
Looking Ahead
Rather than focusing on a single statistic, we should recognise the bigger picture. The UK’s heather moorlands are internationally significant, home to unique wildlife, and a living part of our cultural landscape. Their protection and careful management remain essential, whatever the number.
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