APPM threatens Tarkine, jobs

Issue 

APPM threatens Tarkine, jobs

By Rohan Gaiswinkler

HOBART — APPM on April 23 announced plans to build a $30 million hardwood woodchip mill at Hampshire, on Tasmania's north-west coast. The location would place the mill close to a hardwood plantation, but also on the edge of the Tarkine, Australia's largest single tract of temperate rainforest.

About 20% of the 1.2 million tonnes of timber chipped by the mill each year would come from old growth rainforest in the Tarkine wilderness area.

APPM said its "public consultation program" would seek "community input" on the proposal. However, the actual plan for the mill will not even become available to the public until the second month of the two-month "consultation".

The Wilderness Society's Tasmanian campaign coordinator, Geoff Law, said the mill would probably be the biggest woodchipper in Australia. It would probably be a net job loser (by replacing smaller mills) and probably be fast-tracked by the state's Liberal government.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.