Save our forests for the future
Image: Koalas, in the Australian bush, Queensland.
We can’t survive without trees. That’s not hyperbole, it’s a fact. The Earth is a magnificent organism that has evolved to support human life through an harmonious, intricate, complex system we simply call nature. It is perfectly tuned, precisely balanced. If we interfere with any part of the mechanism, we risk corrupting it, ultimately destroying it.
Unfortunately, humans have interfered, and the system is corrupted and on the verge of destruction. One of the most catastrophic human activities is the wholesale decimation of native forests.
Trees are natural filters that clean our air and make it breathable. They absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen into it.
What’s more, forests are ecosystems for literally thousands of animals, plants and insects.
In Australia, our forests, bushland and rainforests provide home and harbour for some of the most unique species of wildlife and flora in the world. Birds, mammals, lizards, fish, insects of every kind reside in a carefully balanced, self-sustaining community.
However, thanks to uncontrolled tree-felling for woodchipping and timber, Australian forests are being damaged, often irreparably, at a terrifying rate. Native animals such as koalas, greater gliders, wombats and quolls — to name only a very few — are being killed either directly through logging, or because they’re homes and food sources have been demolished.
The logging and woodchipping industry not only destroys a natural and extremely effective carbon neutralising system, but it actually increases greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Logging and woodchipping change natural forests in a way that makes them more susceptible to bush fires. Along with the absolute devastation bush fires cause to the land, wildlife and flora, they contribute significantly to carbon emissions.
NSW has many plantations that have been established for the express purpose of growing and harvesting trees for woodchipping and other wood-related needs. These plantations are capable of supplying almost all the state’s wood requirements. Yet logging in natural forests continues.
The NSW Labor Government was voted in on the mandate that it would ensure the creation of the Great Koala National Park. The park would see the annexing of 175,000 hectares of public forest to an existing reserve in the hinterland behind Coffs Harbour. The resulting 315,000 hectare would become a sanctuary for the koala, one of Australia’s and the world’s most unique animals.
But while politicians dawdle, the land in question is being logged and koalas are being forced to flee.
It’s time to speak up.
On August 12, citizens around the country will gather in a number of specified locations and raise their voices in unison demanding an end to the logging of native forests.
The Rally For Native Forests will prove to state and federal politicians that the people of this country stand together in wanting to put an end to this unnecessary, commercial-driven wholesale destruction of our beautiful forests.
The Sydney rally will take place in Marrickville — Prime Minister Albanese’s own electorate — at Addison Road Community Organisation. All are welcome and urged to take part.
The day’s program will feature several high profile speakers including independent City of Sydney councillor Yvonne Weldon, and comedian Dan Illic, and performances from esoteric pop sensation, Montaigne and blues artist, William Crighton.
There will be food trucks and a positive feeling of human connection and purpose.
It’s FREE but you’ll need to register at www.defendthegiants.org
Rally for Native Forests
August 12, 1pm
Addison Road Community Organisation, 142 Addison Road, Marrickville
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