Natural and anthropogenic causes of peat instability and landslides

This paper provides results from a systematic programme of research into peatland instability that are intended to reinforce appropriate management of potential landslide risks from blanket bogs. It presents well-known and commonly cited contributory factors associated with peat failures but, for the first time, by reference to specific source information, i.e. as inferred by published accounts and interpreted from recent surveys of many of the known failure sites. Until research into peat geotechnics and failure mechanisms can provide a new basis for quantitative stability analyses, these factors should be regarded as ‘primary risk factors’ for natural hazard or environmental impact assessments relating to blanket bogs.