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 (ESA) and the introduction of the Species Conservation Act, 2025 (SCA). These changes threaten to weaken critical protections for Ontario’s most vulnerable species and their habitats, putting biodiversity at risk in the face of escalating climate and ecological crises.

The Endangered Species Act, 2007 has been instrumental in safeguarding at-risk species by mandating science-based assessments, habitat protection, and recovery strategies. However, the proposed interim changes and the SCA appear to prioritize short-term economic interests over long-term environmental sustainability by:

1. Delaying and Weakening Protections: The interim changes allow for extended timelines for listing species and implementing protections, leaving species at risk without urgent safeguards.
2. Reducing Habitat Protections: The SCA risks undermining habitat preservation by introducing discretionary measures that could exempt harmful industrial activities.
3. Limiting Public and Scientific Input: The shift toward ministerial discretion over independent scientific review threatens evidence-based decision-making.

Ontario’s biodiversity is already under severe stress from habitat loss, climate change, and pollution. Further weakening species protections will accelerate declines, with irreversible consequences for ecosystems, Indigenous rights, and future generations.

Instead of dismantling the ESA, I urge the government to:
- Strengthen enforcement of existing protections.
- Increase funding for species recovery and habitat restoration.
- Enhance collaboration with Indigenous communities, scientists, and stakeholders.

I request that the interim changes be withdrawn and that the Species Conservation Act, 2025 be reconsidered to align with stronger, not weaker, conservation standards. Please acknowledge this letter and provide details on how public feedback will inform final decisions.