I am deeply concerned about…

I am deeply concerned about the proposed changes to the Endangered Species Act, as outlined in the Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act.

It is inappropriate to bundle these major environmental changes under legislation that is primarily focused on economic development. While I recognize the urgent need for affordable housing, especially as someone in my late twenties who is struggling to afford rent and cannot purchase a home, I do not believe that responsible development requires the sacrifice of Ontario’s most vulnerable species or their habitats. Growth can and should be achieved through more sustainable, densified, and ecologically responsible planning, not through sprawl.

I am particularly alarmed by the proposed shift in authority that would allow government ministers to add or remove species from the ESA. This undermines the credibility and objectivity of the science-based process currently led by COSSARO. The listing process is designed to be independent and evidence-based for a reason: ecosystems are delicate and interconnected, and political interference can have disastrous, long-term consequences, not just for wildlife, but also for the people of Ontario. Biodiversity is not separate from human well-being. It supports essential ecosystem services such as clean air, water filtration, and climate regulation. Undermining those systems will only create greater financial and ecological costs down the line.

Replacing legally enforceable protections with voluntary conservation measures on private and provincial lands strips away meaningful safeguards for species at risk. With so little federal land in Ontario, strong provincial legislation is essential. Voluntary programs cannot replace enforceable laws—especially in the face of a global biodiversity crisis. Many landowners may lack the time, resources, or expertise to implement effective conservation measures on their own. Legislation helps ensure ecosystems continue to function for the benefit of all Ontarians.

The proposed removal of the term "harass" from species protections is also deeply troubling and not supported by science. Many species, such as nesting shorebirds, are highly sensitive to disturbance. Even well-meaning human presence can lead to nest abandonment and reproductive failure, outcomes that push species closer to extinction. Recovery strategies grounded in scientific research have been key to protecting such vulnerable species. These tools (recovery strategies, response statements, and progress reviews) are essential mechanisms of transparency, accountability, and long-term stewardship.

I urge you to reconsider these changes and uphold Ontario’s responsibility to protect its rich natural heritage, for the sake of both current residents and future generations.