A TRIP to the B & Q Warehouse on York's Hull Road recently to buy potting mix for a friend has prompted me to write.

As a visiting Aussie I was unaware of the depleting peat reserves in Britain and was impressed by clear labelling information that outlined the phasing out of this destructive practice.

Such environmental attention should be applauded. It is only through public awareness like this and affirmative action that positive results for our environment can occur.

Far from it being a trend, there seems to be a rapidly growing movement towards protecting and preserving natural assets in Britain.

This is in stark contrast to my home country where information about Tasmania's environment has been shrouded in secrecy and deception.

Large, ancient, unprotected hardwood forests thousands of years old, are being voraciously clear-felled for a hungry overseas woodchip market at an alarming rate.

Along with the trees, up to 50 species of endangered animals and plants are also threatened with extinction.

In relation to this woodchipping industry, self-regulated government bodies have made themselves exempt from such laws as the Freedom Of Information and Endangered Species Acts. One can only wonder what there may be to hide.

I hope the Australian Government will follow this fine British example and show sincere support for securing the heritage for our future generations.

Jacqueline Lynette Coupe,

c/o Greencroft Court,

Dunnington, York.

Updated: 10:12 Friday, August 06, 2004