New South Wales EPA Made a Deal with Logging Group, Putting Marsupials at Risk

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) faces criticism from environmental groups for allegedly supporting logging operations that threaten the endangered greater glider. These groups argue that the EPA has made inadequate efforts to protect this nocturnal marsupial, conducting searches during the day and thus failing to identify critical den trees.

The greater glider, Australia’s largest gliding marsupial, was declared endangered in 2022 due to habitat loss from logging and fires. These gliders depend on hollows in old trees for shelter and raising their young. Previously, the Forestry Corporation NSW (FCNSW) was required to survey for den trees and establish a protective buffer zone, but the guidelines were vague on the timing and thoroughness of these surveys.

In 2023, after a dead glider was found near a logging site, the EPA issued stop-work orders and discovered numerous den trees in planned logging areas. However, the searches had been improperly conducted during the day. In response, the EPA mandated night-time surveys, particularly within an hour of sunset when the gliders are most active. Despite these measures, environmental groups have reported ongoing breaches of the new rules.

The EPA’s recent clarification of survey rules, allowing some flexibility in timing, has been criticized by environmentalists who claim it prioritizes logging interests over species protection. They argue that the required exclusion zones around den trees are insufficient, advocating for larger buffer zones based on scientific research. The EPA maintains it is committed to protecting the environment while balancing industry needs. The ongoing tension highlights the challenges of conserving endangered species amidst competing economic interests.

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