Gunns

Gunns was an Australian forestry and timber company. It was founded in Tasmania and grew to become one of the largest forest product companies in the country. The company was involved in various aspects of the forestry industry, including plantation forestry, timber processing, and pulp and paper production. Gunns operated significant plantation estates, primarily of eucalyptus species, and was a major player in the export of woodchips.

The company faced considerable public scrutiny and opposition regarding its environmental practices, particularly concerning old-growth logging and the development of a large pulp mill project. This pulp mill proposal was highly controversial, attracting widespread protests and legal challenges from environmental groups and local communities. Despite initial approvals, the project ultimately did not proceed.

Gunns experienced significant financial difficulties in its later years. These challenges were attributed to a combination of factors including the downturn in commodity prices, the failure to realize the pulp mill project, and substantial debt. The company eventually entered into voluntary administration and then liquidation in 2013. Its assets were subsequently sold off to various entities. The legacy of Gunns continues to be a subject of discussion in the context of Tasmania's forestry industry and environmental debates.