Forest Research Centre

Alcoa Australia is committed to protecting, restoring and sharing knowledge about the Jarrah Forest in Western Australia. In support of this, $15 million in funding for the coming five years has been allocated to a dedicated research centre, the Forest Research Centre (FRC).

Commencing in January 2025, the FRC builds on 50 years of research and development that guides the continuous improvement of the way Alcoa manages and restores areas post mining operations. The centre builds on existing research programs covering fauna management, biodiversity enhancement, rehabilitation delivery and water stewardship and incorporates Traditional Owner knowledge to guide “two-way” science.

Research Pillars

Fauna protection and return
Understanding and enhancing fauna management through improved surveys and monitoring, use of technology and feral species control

Enhancing forest flora knowledge
Developing knowledge of rehabilitated ecosystems, ecological communities, and impacts of climate, fire and dieback on forest plants

Leading practice rehabilitation
Building understanding of landscaping practice, topsoil management, seed germination and growth, and plant cultivation

Water stewardship 
Ongoing protection of waterways and drinking water catchments, and furthering research of long-term trends in stream flow and climate impacts on surface and groundwater

First Nations two-way science
Partnering to enhance understanding of forest management, fire, culturally significant species, and health and wellbeing benefits found in the forest

The FRC provides an opportunity to expand our long-running programs and enhance collaborative research opportunities with institutions and individuals. The ongoing development of our understanding of forest management will continue to inform the ways that we and others protect the environment, rehabilitate mining areas and restore functioning ecosystems, with the ultimate aim of improving forest health.

This work is supported by our dedicated team of inhouse environmental research scientists, and collaboration partners. Our dedication is acknowledged globally, including being the first mining company to receive recognition from the United Nations for rehabilitation excellence in 1990 and earning a place on the Global 500 Roll of Honour.

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Related Sources

Learn about our Rehab Research Team from Dr Andrew Grigg

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Find out from Lucy how we contribute to forest research

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2024 WA Environmental Research Symposium: Sustainable Solutions

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Alcoa Australia's Fauna Monitoring Boosts Species Richness

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