The Australian Government’s $1.8 billion investment in Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) forest sector has raised concerns among environmental advocates, local communities, and government officials. The project, led by Epoca Group, aims to transform the forestry industry in Western Province, but its legitimacy and potential impact on the environment are being questioned.

The Background

In 2020, PNG’s Forestry Authority announced plans to establish a new framework for forestry operations, with the aim of promoting sustainable forest management. The initiative was seen as an opportunity to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in Western Province, one of the country’s most remote regions.

The Deal

In October 2020, PNG’s government signed a $1.8 billion agreement with Epoca Group, which will develop a 600km road network through the province. The project is touted as a “homegrown” initiative designed to improve access and services for local communities. However, concerns have been raised about the lack of transparency around the deal, which has not been made public.

Concerns Over Transparency

Critics argue that the agreement was rushed, with the PNG Forest Authority being bypassed in the process. Peter Bosip, managing director of environmental law firm CELCOR, described the situation as “highly irregular.”

“The Department of Commerce and Industry does not deal with road construction … it will deal with international business [but] not anything to do with logging or whatsoever,” Bosip said.

Community Impacts

Local communities are worried about the potential impacts of the project on their way of life. Western Province Governor Taboi Awi Yoto stated that the project would provide services and uplift living standards for the people, but former PNG Prime Minister Peter O’Neill questioned this claim.

“It is certainly not a sort of development that is aimed at providing services and uplifting [the] standard of living for our people,” O’Neill said. “It is more about creating jobs and stimulating economic growth for external companies.”

Environmental Concerns

Environmental advocates are also concerned about the project’s potential impact on PNG’s fragile rainforests. The country’s last valuable rainforest, the Sepik River Delta, was heavily logged in the 1990s without proper regulation.

“This is a critical area for biodiversity and for indigenous peoples’ livelihoods,” said Peter Bosip. “We need to be very cautious about this project.”

Investigations

Former PNG Prime Minister Peter O’Neill has called for a detailed investigation into the project, stating that independent investigations will reveal the true intentions of those involved.

“Who’s making money out of this? We don’t know. But the independent investigations will certainly reveal that,” O’Neill said.

Conclusion

The PNG government’s $1.8 billion investment in Western Province’s forestry sector has raised concerns about transparency, community impacts, and environmental sustainability. As the project moves forward, it is essential to ensure that local communities and the environment are protected from potential harm. A thorough investigation into the deal’s legitimacy will provide clarity on the true intentions of those involved and help safeguard PNG’s precious natural resources for future generations.