Holcim Australia has played a key role in a biodiversity protection project that could save a critically endangered tree.
The project follows Holcim Australia’s discovery of a small population of Scrub Turpentine (Rhodamnia rubescens) in the eastern development area of its Bli Bli Quarry in 2021.
“To offset the impact of clearing some Scrub Turpentine trees, which had succumbed to the myrtle rust fungus and are vital to the life of the quarry, Holcim contributed to a Queensland Department of Primary Industries project examining the tree’s genetic diversity and tolerance to myrtle rust,” Holcim Australia national planning manager Victoria Musgrove said.
“Researchers collected leaf samples from sites across Queensland, including Bli Bli, and used genomic sequencing and resistance testing to assess remaining diversity and signs of natural tolerance to the fungus.”
The research from the project found that, despite some level of decline, the Scrub Turpentine has enough “genetic variation” and “tolerance” to support a genetically informed breeding program.
“This is sustainability in action. Through the Nature pillar of our NextGen Growth 2030 strategy, we support solutions that protect biodiversity while meeting demand for essential materials,” Holcim Australia head of sustainability Cyril Giraud said.
“By linking industry access, scientific expertise, and regulatory support, we’ve helped achieve an outcome that matters for conservation.”
Bli Bli Quarry manager Brian Burr said the team was proud to play a role in this project.
“We never imagined a quarry could play a role in saving a species. Seeing how our work has supported research that may give this tree a second chance is genuinely rewarding. It shows that responsible operations can leave a positive mark on nature,” he said.
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