Welcome back GFZ's, 

Did you know Greenpeace is cracking down on large retailers to meet deforestation-banning targets by 2025?

Recent reports have shown that major retailers like Coles and Woolworths have fallen short in addressing deforestation in their supply chains. But don't worry; we're here to shine a light on the green solutions and options available to make a difference. There has never been a better time!

Deforestation in Australia

Australia has the second higest deforestation rates globally (see table below), killing millions of native Australian animals yearly. Australia is undergoing a hidden deforestation crisis, with cattle grazing for beef production bein the leading cause. 

This issue has persisted for decades, and according to a Greenpeace Australia Pacific report, none of the assessed companies—including Aldi, McDonald's, JBS, Tyson, Hungry Jacks, Teys, IGA, and Comgroup—scored above 50 per cent in the Greenpeace Scorecard. And Greenpeace is determined to keep companies accountable!

What is Greenpeace Asking Corporations to Do About Deforestation?

Greenpeace has a clear message for corporations in Australia: Stop bulldozing forests for your products. They're asking a commitment and actions to no deforestation or destruction of natural ecosystems, and to meet that commitment by 2025.

The big beef here is beef itself. As the top culprit driving deforestation in Australia, Greenpeace wants companies to ensure their beef isn’t coming from cattle operations that have been destroying forests since 2020. Tackle this, and we can save a lot of trees—and the critters that call them home.

What can we do?

This highlights a significant challenge but also an opportunity to address the issue, educate ourselfs and see what we can do from our homes.

Here’s how you can make an impact

1. Support Your Local Farmers:

   • Buying from local farmers markets not only reduces your carbon footprint, but also supports sustainable agricultural practices. Plus, it's a great way to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce. Check out your local farmers' markets or community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs.

2. Support Ethical Companies:

   • Choose to spend your money with businesses that prioritise sustainability. Can you go to your local food store?Get to know them and learn how they support other local businesses and their ethical sourcing. 

3. Grow Your Own Food:

   • If you have the space, consider starting a garden. Even a small space can supply a surprising amount of produce, and it's incredibly rewarding to eat something you've grown yourself. Plus, it doesn't get more local than your own backyard!
4.  Meat-free Mondays (or everyday):

• By choosing to go meat-free for even just a day a week you are cutting down your meat industry emissions and might discover recipes that become your new favourite! We love sharing meat-free recipes on our recipe blog here! 

By making these mindful choices and supporting local sustainable practices, we can help turn the tide on deforestation. Big retailers have a long way to go, but together, we can cultivate change and grow a greener future.

For more Good Earth News and tips on living sustainably , head to our Happy Earth News blog. We have a whole heap more good Earth news to make your day! 

Until next week GFZ's, 

Much love, 

GFZ TEAM oxox