The European Commission (EC) has initiated legal proceedings against Ireland, accusing it of failing to enforce EU regulations concerning peat extraction, especially at smaller sites of under 50 hectares. While the EC acknowledged Ireland's significant actions to regulate larger operators, it expressed concern over ongoing illegal activities at smaller sites that lack proper environmental impact assessments. Peatlands are critical for biodiversity and climate change mitigation, storing substantial carbon. Environmental advocates, including the Irish Peatland Conservation Council, have welcomed the EC's actions, citing the environmental degradation caused by commercial peat extraction, which leads to habitat loss and water pollution. The Irish government maintains that peat extraction is a regulated activity, with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforcing rules for larger sites. However, enforcement for smaller sites falls under local planning authorities, which the government claims are responsible for compliance. The EC's case aims to ensure Ireland upholds its environmental responsibilities, while domestic turf cutting for personal use remains unaffected.