An Environmental History of Australian Rainforests until 1939: Fire, Rain, Settlers and Conservation

This book provides a comprehensive environmental history of Australia's rainforests, exploring their development, influence of Aborigines and pioneers, farmers and loggers, and efforts to protect them. It highlights the contradictions between competing views and uses of rainforests, and their significance as a part of Australia's heritage and biodiversity. It is of interest to students and scholars of Environmental History, Australian History, and Comparative History.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 234 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

A comprehensive environmental history of Australia's rainforests is presented in this text, exploring their development, the influence of various groups such as Aborigines, pioneers, farmers, and loggers, and the ongoing efforts to protect and conserve these precious ecosystems. While the focus on rainforests and conservation may have gained prominence in recent years, the debate over human usage of these forests extends far back into the nineteenth century. Rainforests are widely regarded as the most captivating of ecosystems, exuding a lush, vibrant, immense, mysterious, spiritual, and romantic allure. They hold a special place, serving as a direct connection to Gondwanaland and the dinosaurs, while also being home to numerous endangered species and boasting remarkable biodiversity.

Moreover, rainforests are an integral part of Australia's heritage, with significant portions of these forests designated as World Heritage Sites. However, this heritage is not without its complexities. The definition of a rainforest, the appropriate management and usage strategies, and the extent to which they should be protected are ongoing topics of debate. These debates are particularly influenced by the contrasting perspectives and uses of rainforests. On one hand, some view them as untapped resources for agriculture and forestry, while others advocate for their preservation as attractive and sublime natural wonders.

Australia serves as a prime example in this global narrative, highlighting both its exceptional aspects and its contributions to the early development of national parks. The intensity of clearing in certain periods and Australia's role in establishing national parks are notable features that set it apart from other regions. This book will be of immense interest to students and scholars of Environmental History, providing valuable insights into the complex history, conservation challenges, and ongoing debates surrounding Australia's rainforests.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367530198