The exact amount of carbon that peatlands will lose as permafrost thaws is uncertain, as it depends on a number of factors, including the temperature increase, the amount of permafrost that thaws, and the characteristics of the peatland. However, some estimates suggest that peatlands could lose up to 1,600 billion tonnes of carbon by 2100 if global temperatures increase by 2°C. This is equivalent to about 10 years of global fossil fuel emissions.

Peatlands are important carbon sinks, storing vast amounts of organic matter that has accumulated over thousands of years. When permafrost thaws, this organic matter is exposed to oxygen, which causes it to decompose and release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This process can also lead to the release of methane, a potent greenhouse gas that is 25 times more effective at trapping heat than carbon dioxide.

The thawing of permafrost is a serious concern for climate change, as it could release large amounts of carbon into the atmosphere and further accelerate global warming. It is important to take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit the amount of permafrost that thaws in order to avoid the worst effects of climate change.