January 15, 2026 — The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) has launched an investigation into Alcoa’s mining operations in Western Australia, focusing on a potential breach of environmental regulations concerning a single jarrah tree at the Huntly mine site. The investigation centers around whether Alcoa violated its exemption order by failing to maintain a mandated 10-meter buffer zone around the tree, which is crucial for the nesting of endangered black cockatoos.
The alleged breach was first reported by independent news site Boiling Cold, with DWER confirming the ongoing investigation. “It would not be appropriate to make further comment while the investigation is ongoing,” a department spokesperson stated.
Environmental Concerns and Political Reactions
The WA Greens have been vocal about the issue, claiming to have uncovered evidence that prompted the DWER investigation. MLC Jess Beckerling has provided documentation she believes confirms the breach. “If the breach is confirmed, which I am confident it must be, then Alcoa must be immediately notified that its special exemption from WA’s environment laws is no longer valid and any clearing or mining activities must cease at least until the EPA’s assessment is complete,” Beckerling asserted.
Beckerling criticized the Cook government for granting Alcoa the exemption, arguing that the conditions were inadequate. She emphasized the need for the government to uphold its commitment to revoke the exemption if any breaches occur.
Alcoa’s Response and Operational Practices
In response to the investigation, an Alcoa spokesperson stated that the company is aware of the inquiry and is cooperating fully. “We consider that we are operating in accordance with the section 6 exemption order,” the spokesperson said, emphasizing the company’s commitment to environmental regulations.
Alcoa explained that the tree in question was identified during pre-mining surveys in 2014, and a 10-meter buffer was applied as per management plans. The company maintains that the tree was not identified as a black cockatoo nesting tree. Alcoa further clarified that clearing activities around the tree occurred in 2020, before the section 6 conditions were implemented, and that subsequent mining activities did not breach the buffer zone.
“At Alcoa, we are focused on working responsibly to balance environmental and social considerations while producing aluminium, an essential material for decarbonisation and countless everyday products,” the spokesperson added.
Future Implications and Environmental Commitments
Alcoa has expressed its ongoing commitment to enhancing environmental protections. The company has proposed a 30-meter buffer around known black cockatoo nesting trees and other significant trees as part of its current environmental assessment. “We continue to work with regulators, third-party consultants, and researchers to maintain our commitment to continuously improving our approaches to environmental protection, mining operations, and rehabilitation,” the spokesperson noted.
Alcoa highlighted its rehabilitation efforts, supported by peer-reviewed research, indicating that post-mining areas are on track to become self-sustaining forests. This commitment aligns with broader environmental goals and the company’s role in producing aluminium, which is vital for decarbonisation and various industries.
The outcome of the DWER investigation will likely have significant implications for Alcoa’s operations and could influence future regulatory decisions regarding mining exemptions in environmentally sensitive areas.
