Deep within Ireland's vast expanse of peat bogs lies a world of historical significance, cultural heritage, and environmental importance. Photographer Shane Hynan is documenting this vanishing landscape through his project, 'Beofhód', which translates to 'Beneath' in English – a poignant reflection on the layers of history hidden within these unique ecosystems.
The peat bogs, known as 'portachs' in Irish, cover an area of between 1.2 million and 1.5 million hectares, approximately 14% to 17% of Ireland's total landmass. The raised bogs of the Irish Midlands are particularly notable, with peat forming at a rate of just one millimetre per year due to low-lying, poorly drained conditions.
For generations, turf from these bogs has been a primary fuel source for rural Irish homes, providing an affordable alternative to other heating methods. Households relying on turf can spend as little as €800 annually on heating – a fraction of the average Irish energy bill. This affordability and control over supply have made turf an integral part of rural life.
However, Ireland's peat bogs are facing severe threats, with data from An Phríomh-Oifig Staidrimh (Ireland’s Central Statistics Office) indicating that over 80% of the country's original peatland has already been lost. This substantial decline is attributed to a combination of extraction for fuel, afforestation, horticulture, and agriculture.
As well as their cultural significance, Ireland's peat bogs are globally recognised as vital carbon sinks. Research from the FarmPEAT project highlights that a healthy Irish raised bog can store up to 13 times more carbon per hectare than the Amazon rainforest – underscoring their critical role in mitigating climate change.
Hynan expresses concern for the future of these bogs, predicting that 'in 20 years … a lot will be gone' as it is a finite resource. His photographic project seeks to explore the complex relationship between people and their environment, questioning environmental ideals versus current practices and lived experiences. Hynan states, 'I’m not being didactic and telling you to stop it. I’m here to question your relationship to the environment.'