Rachel Millar
New Zealand’s WIDE Trust announced Rachel Millar as the latest recipient of a Best Practice Study Tour grant. This grant will enable Ms Millar to embark on an international journey, delving into cutting-edge practices and innovations in the forestry and wood processing industries. Source: Timberbiz
Applications for a Best Practice Study Tour grant remain open at all times, providing a rare opportunity for others to apply and follow in Ms Millar’s footsteps.
Ms Millar works as the Environmental Manager for the New Zealand Forest Owners Association (FOA) and the Forest Growers Levy Trust (FGLT), engaging in critical environmental matters on behalf of forest owners, while fostering connections between the forestry industry and government agencies.
Her dedication is highlighted by her co-ordination of the FOA submission to the Ministerial Inquiry into Land Use in Tairāwhiti-Gisborne and Wairoa – demonstrating her commitment to developing comprehensive solutions for managing environmental impacts.
Her multifaceted role within FOA/FGLT involves providing advice to boards, engaging with stakeholders, and promoting work on sustainable best practices that contribute to industry growth. Her responsibilities place her at the forefront of shaping the industry’s response to environmental challenges.
Ms Millar’s application to the WIDE Trust for a Best Practice Study Tour grant was driven by a compelling business case that revolved around two key study themes.
The first centres on solutions for woody debris and sediment management, directly tied to the outcomes of the Ministerial Inquiry. Drawing upon her involvement in the FOA submission into the inquiry, Ms Millar seeks to gain insights from international counterparts who have effectively managed similar environmental challenges. Her goal is to bolster the forestry sector’s response to the inquiry’s recommendations and ensure evidence-based decisions lead to optimal outcomes for both the industry, our taiao (environment) and the affected communities.
The second theme focuses on addressing the social licence crisis currently faced by New Zealand’s forestry sector following Cyclones Hale and Gabrielle. This crisis underscores the importance of enhancing public perception and navigating backlash related to environmental impacts. By exploring successful strategies employed by other nations, Rachel aims to equip the forestry sector with the tools needed to regain public trust and build a stronger social licence to operate.
Ms Millar’s study tour will include the Pacific Northwest of the US, the southeast of the US, Tasmania, Chile and Brazil.
Apply online at www.widetrust.org.nz for a Best Practice Study Tour grant.
