Protest for forests at Polish consulate - 3 March 2006

Greens MLC Ian Cohen will participate in a worldwide day of protest to save the last reaming lowland old growth forest in Europe. The protest is being organised by the Rainforest Information Centre of Lismore.

12 noon
Friday 3 March 2006
Polish consulate
10 Trelawney Street, Woollahra


“Visits to Polish embassies around the world are being organised for 3 March 2006 as part of the campaign to save Bialowieza Forest, Europe’s last low-land old growth forest and protect it as a National Park,” Mr Cohen said.

“The 8000 year old ancient woodland of Bialowieza is situated in the border zone of Poland and Belarus. Only 15% of the forest is protected with the remaining 85% open to logging.

“The forest is the home to the last wild European bison which wanders freely between the forests 500 year old oaks and towering spruce,” Mr Cohen said.

“The forest is being threatened by commercial logging operations and inappropriate tourist development.

“Polish President Lech Kaczynski is being asked to personally intervene to initiate legislation that would lead to the creation of an expanded National Park.

“I will also be meeting with the Consul General to discuss the issue,” Mr Cohen said.


Further Information: Ben Oquist 02 9230 3305 or 0419 704 095