23/07/2026
Today I sent a letter to Michael Schneider, CEO of Bunnings, urging the company to stop sourcing timber from high conservation value native forests.
I only recently learnt that PEFC certification, used on some timber products, has been criticised because it can still certify logging operations in native forests that provide habitat for threatened species such as greater gliders, swift parrots and quolls.
I was also surprised to learn that, while Bunnings has a "zero tolerance" approach to illegally logged timber, some environmental groups have questioned whether the certification schemes it relies on are strong enough to protect Australia's most valuable native forests.
Writing the letter taught me something else. My first draft was full of frustration! I wanted to ask, "Where's the common sense?" and declare it "unethical in the extreme!" Instead, I rewrote it to focus on the issue rather than my emotions. If we genuinely want to influence people in positions of leadership, respectful and thoughtful communication is far more likely to be heard.
If you also believe Australia's native forests deserve stronger protection, why not write your own letter? Companies do listen when enough customers respectfully ask them to do better.
Bunnings Group Limited
Locked Bag 3004
Hawthorn East VIC 3122
Every respectful voice adds to the pressure to bring about change. 🌳🦜