Galway

Despite the new prosperity, the traces of the impoverished past have not been erased...(such as) the traditional use of peat as fuel. Despite the colossal ecological footprint, one in seven Irish households still heats with peat. The government has repeatedly tried to ban its burning. The new deadline is said to be 2024. No one believes it. A couple in Mayo unloading peat briquettes laughs when I mention the ban. Why would they stop burning peat? Especially now, with the war in Europe and rising fuel prices. They heat their home for barely 320 euros all winter long. Environmental concerns hardly make an impression. The peat is right around the corner for the taking: 'Everything close by, no transport, no snoopers.' The photo was taken in a bog area in Galway. Excavated peat is drying out until it becomes turf.

De Standaard