Greg L’Estrange, managing director of Gunns said the successful approvals were a critical step in finalising finance for the mill to begin construction. He says, “It is confirmation that the mill’s design and operation must meet stringent environmental standards.

“Gunns has heard community concerns around the mill project since its original approval in 2007, and has attempted to address these concerns. Fundamental to this has been the adoption of a 100 per cent plantation strategy and the adoption of the latest bleaching technology.”

The approvals by Environment Minister Tony Burke were for the amendment of previously approved modules to incorporate proposed mill changes and for the final three of 16 environmental management plan modules.

The Minister has also added an additional condition to the approval to ensure that any future alterations to the project deliver an equivalent or improved environmental outcome.

L’Estrange adds, “The Government’s comprehensive approval process brings certainty for our proposed investors and we would hope allay many of the community’s concerns about potential environmental impacts on the marine environment.”

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