Alcoa forced to pay $38 million after illegally clearing Australian native forest

Core Viewpoint - Alcoa will pay A$55 million (approximately $39 million) to remediate illegally cleared native forest in Western Australia, marking a significant legal and financial consequence for the company due to environmental violations [1]. Group 1: Financial Implications - The payment of A$55 million is described as "unprecedented" and the largest of its kind related to environmental remediation in Australia [1]. - The funds will be allocated to conservation initiatives, including ecological offsets and programs aimed at preserving endangered species [1]. Group 2: Environmental Impact - Alcoa has cleared approximately 28,000 hectares (69,000 acres) of the native jarrah forest since the 1960s, facing increasing public opposition regarding its environmental practices [1]. - The company unlawfully cleared just under 2,100 hectares between 2019 and 2025 without government approvals, which has drawn significant scrutiny [1]. Group 3: Public Response - A proposal to clear an additional 11,500 hectares of jarrah forest received a record 59,000 public submissions to the state's environmental watchdog, indicating strong community concern [1].