The Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) is calling on major supermarkets to adopt a definition of deforestation that meets international standards.
ACF business and biodiversity lead, Nathaniel Pelle, said the proper deforestation definition refers to the clearing of natural forests, including primary forests, regenerating forests, and woodlands.
Whether it is legal felling or forests are used as agricultural property, frameworks such as accountability frameworks and science-based targets must be followed.
“In Australia, most deforestation is the destruction of forests over 15 years old, which are essential for rich biodiversity. Even if they are used as agricultural land, bulldozing them constitutes deforestation,” said Pelle.
Pelle added that due to poor traceability and transparency, it is difficult for consumers and import markets to verify the source of deforestation-free beef.
ACF welcomes Woolworths’ decision to stop selling beef linked to deforestation.
Compared to Coles’ vague stance, Aldi has made a stronger “zero conversion” commitment, including protecting entire ecosystems.
More than 250 Australian scientists have called for an urgent halt to deforestation.
“Failure to take action to end deforestation will have consequences for farmers, shareholders, nature and ultimately our food security,” said Nathaniel.