Curbing urban sprawl,…

Curbing urban sprawl, protecting agricultural land and promoting long-term economic growth has resulted in changes to how we plan, build and live in our communities. (Ontario's Food and Organic Waste Policy Statement, p.18) Shifts towards more compact urban forms and multi-unit residential developments are preferrable to continuing the development of agricultural and green spaces in Ontario.

I am very concerned that developing the Greenbelt will be a permanent blow to Ontario's sustainability and environmental integrity. Many Ontarians have become accustomed to a standard of living (i.e. large and detached homes) that is unsustainable. Ontario needs to develop smarter and focus on the densification of existing urban areas while ensuring a high quality of life. Ontario needs to innovate and do better in accordance with best available science and information, not develop over our green spaces.

I implore you to reconsider the development of portions of the Greenbelt and to consider alternatives for housing and development. Ontario must do its part to help Canada meet its environmental and climate change targets.