I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed interim changes to the Endangered Species Act, 2007 and the introduction of the Species Conservation Act, 2025. These changes pose a serious threat to Ontario’s biodiversity, ecosystems, and our collective responsibility to protect vulnerable species.

The proposed legislation appears to prioritize industrial development and corporate interests over ecological integrity. Weakening the current protections under the Endangered Species Act will undoubtedly accelerate habitat loss, fragment vital ecosystems, and push already at-risk species closer to extinction. This is unacceptable.

Allowing companies to pay into a conservation fund instead of taking direct responsibility for environmental impacts undermines the very foundation of species protection. It turns conservation into a transactional process rather than a shared moral and environmental duty. Moreover, this approach creates loopholes that could lead to unchecked exploitation of sensitive habitats, with irreversible consequences for our environment.

Ontario has a proud history of natural beauty and biodiversity, but this legacy is at risk if we continue down this path. Conservation must be rooted in science, long-term thinking, and the understanding that a healthy environment supports both wildlife and human communities.

I urge you to halt these proposed changes and instead strengthen, not weaken, the existing Endangered Species Act. We must lead with courage and responsibility in the face of climate change and biodiversity loss — not retreat into short-term economic gains.

Thank you for considering my comments.