On its website, the Wilderness Society outlines, “Forest destruction to make paper has devastating consequences for our native wildlife. Scientists estimate that there are less than 1,000 Leadbeater’s Possums left.

“The species is teetering on the edge of extinction – but still their last remaining habitat is being destroyed by woodchipping to make paper products like Reflex.”

Meanwhile, Australian Paper says close to 60 per cent of its total fibre requirement is met from plantations. The stakeholder review is examining all fibre supply options, with a focus on additional plantation fibre.

Jim Henneberry, CEO of Australian Paper says, “An important part of the review process involves looking at all the plantation options in detail, including plantation wood supplies in Gippsland and in Western Victoria. The latter resource is more than 500 kilometres from our Mill and we have commissioned a detailed study of this option.

“We need to constructively consult with our key stakeholders to get it right. This includes environmental groups who we have maintained an open dialogue with over many years. Our hope is that all key stakeholders will be available and open to an inclusive process.”

Australian Paper expects to announce the findings of the review in August this year.

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