Clear-felling, as the name suggests, first involves the complete felling of a forest by chainsaws and skidders. Then, the whole area is torched, the firing started by helicopters dropping incendiary devices made of jellied petroleum, commonly known as napalm. The resultant fire is of such ferocity it produces mushroom clouds visible from considerable distances. In consequence, every autumn, the island’s otherwise most beautiful season, china-blue skies are frequently nicotine-scummed, an inescapable reminder that clearfelling means the total destruction of ancient and unique forests. At its worst, the smoke from these burn-offs has led to the closure of schools, highways and tourist destinations. ( Richard Flanagan, The Monthly. May 2007.)
Very little has changed in ten years. This beautiful rare and fragile wilderness is being destroyed by men and women who fail to comprehend the great value of this place – if left preserved and cherished. Such policies rob future generations of their heritage.
Also of note is the essay by Jonathon West in the Griffin Review. https://griffithreview.com/articles/obstacles-to-progress/