The benefits of the Palaszczuk Government’s vegetation management laws in protecting our valuable species are in the spotlight today as the world marks International Day of Forests.
Minister for Environment and the Great Barrier Reef Leeanne Enoch said today was about celebrating Queensland’s huge variety of native forests that contribute to biodiversity and recreation opportunities near our towns and cities.
“On days like this it is also important to reflect the important role forests have in providing habitats for our species.
“And this is why we are delivering on an election commitment and have introduced strict tree clearing laws in Queensland Parliament – to end broadscale clearing of remnant vegetation to protect our environment and climate.
“In the past we’ve seen various species in Queensland become extinct, with destruction of their habitats being one of the exacerbated factors.
“The paradise parrot has not been seen since 1927 and the black-throated finch is no longer found in southern Queensland and northern NSW, mostly because of the destruction of their habitat.
“We’ve also got species like the pale imperial hairstreak butterfly that have such a small population and isolated habitat that threatens its long term survival.
“Our tree clearing laws will make a real difference to our species that are under threat and while also helping ensure we meet our global commitments to decrease our carbon emissions, including a transition to zero net emissions by 2050.”
Today’s International Forest Day theme is Forests and Sustainable Cities and Ms Enoch said this was also chance to appreciate the forests on the doorstep of many Queensland towns and cities.
“Queensland has about three million hectares of State forests and timber reserves that provide a range of benefits for the community,” Ms Enoch said.
“That’s in addition to the many areas of forest on our national and conservation parks.
“Our forests link us to nature, culture and heritage, and they lift our spirits, increase our fitness, and provide jobs.
“They are our water catchments, and they clean our air and host our precious wildlife.”
For more information about Queensland forests, visit www.des.qld.gov.au/nationalparks/.