I am writing to express deep…

I am writing to express deep concern and opposition to the proposed changes to Ontario’s Endangered Species Act (ESA), as outlined in the Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act, 2025. These amendments would significantly weaken protections for species at risk and their habitats at a time when Ontario—and the world—is facing an accelerating biodiversity crisis.

The ESA is one of Ontario’s most important tools for protecting threatened wildlife and ecosystems. It is based on science, precaution, and a duty to future generations. The proposed changes would allow exemptions and delays in implementing recovery strategies, prioritize economic development over ecological integrity, and shift decision-making power away from independent scientific bodies toward politically influenced authorities.

This shift not only undermines the scientific basis of the Act but also opens the door to irreversible damage to Ontario’s natural heritage. Once critical habitats are destroyed, they cannot be recovered. The costs of inaction—loss of biodiversity, disrupted ecosystems, and weakened climate resilience—will far outweigh any short-term economic benefit gained by deregulation.

Protecting endangered species is not a luxury; it is a responsibility. Ontario can grow its economy while upholding strong environmental protections, but these amendments take us in the wrong direction. I urge the government to withdraw the proposed changes and recommit to evidence-based conservation policies that safeguard the province’s unique biodiversity for generations to come.