Major areas and results of research by the Karelian school of mire science

North European Russia is one of the most heavily paludified regions world. Mires provide crucial biosphere functions, contain plant resources and enormous peat reserves, hold potential as land for forestry agriculture. They are developed used in various economic activities. have been actively studied since early 20th century; integrated studies mires Karelia carried out by Mire Ecosystems Laboratory Institute Biology KarRC RAS 1950 there has formed Karelian school mire science, known both across abroad. Multifaceted several generations researchers produced theoretical methodological developments detailed classifications mires, vegetation, types, deposits region. Outputs applied value include republic’s cadasters recommendations on use peatlands To secure conservation high diversity ecosystems region a network mire-focused protected areas statuses established with scientific substantiation their designation prepared laboratory. Integrated within number international projects programs implemented during more than 30 years. The article describes key research results science.