Under Schedule 10, the…

Under Schedule 10, the second section of highlights mentions that “certain migratory birds and aquatic species listed as extirpated, endangered, or threatened under the Species at Risk Act (Canada) are excluded from the application of the Act, other than for the purposes of assessment and classification by COSSARO” (Stephen, 2025). This exclusion means that Ontario laws do not provide any protections or enforcement measures for certain migratory species. Consequently, these species are left vulnerable, without the necessary legal safeguards to ensure their survival and well-being. Under Schedule 9, the introduction of special economic zoning with exemptions from provincial and municipal laws represents another shortsighted and backward step. This move undermines the vital work that has been done to protect various animals that have migrated to and from Canada for millennia. By creating zones where environmental regulations are relaxed or ignored, the government is jeopardizing the environmental and cultural heritage of the country. Countless animals and the ecosystems they interact with would be left without the safety net they require to remain sufficiently protected from further endangerment, both to themselves and their habitats. Canada boasts some of the most iconic natural features in the world. From coast to coast, natural wonders like Niagara Falls, the Canadian Rockies, enormous rainforests, the Great Lakes, and dinosaur-filled badlands attract millions of visitors each year. These natural attractions not only enhance Canada's global reputation but also significantly boost the country's economy through tourism. To risk the destructive zoning of even one area for economic desires, even if that area appears mundane to a passerby, such as a wetland or a simple field of wildflowers, poses great risks to all the areas around them. Removing waterways that animals use and live in, driving out crucial species that keep these areas functioning, and creating a stepping stone to the deracination of greater and greater expanses are all potential consequences of such zoning decisions. Urban sprawl is another critical issue that threatens Canada's natural assets and agriculture. As cities expand, farmland and natural areas are being encroached upon, sacrificing the essential subsistence resources and environmental affluence that Canada is known for. The loss of farmland not only impacts food production but also disrupts the delicate balance of ecosystems that rely on these areas for habitat and sustenance. Natural areas, which provide vital ecosystem services such as water filtration, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity conservation, are also at risk of being lost to urban development. The introduction of special economic zoning and the lack of protections for migratory species under Schedule 10 and Schedule 9 highlight a troubling trend in environmental policy. These measures prioritize short-term economic gains over long-term environmental sustainability and the preservation of Canada's natural heritage. The consequences of such policies are far-reaching and could lead to irreversible damage to the country's ecosystems and biodiversity. It is crucial for policymakers to recognize the importance of protecting migratory species and natural areas. These protections are not just about preserving wildlife; they are about maintaining the health and resilience of ecosystems that support human life and well-being. Strong environmental regulations and enforcement mechanisms are necessary to ensure that economic development does not come at the expense of the environment. Public awareness and advocacy are also essential in driving change. Citizens must be informed about the potential impacts of these policies and encouraged to voice their concerns to their representatives. Grassroots movements and environmental organizations play a vital role in holding policy makers accountable and pushing for more sustainable and responsible environmental practices. In conclusion, the exclusion of certain migratory species from protections under Schedule 10 and the introduction of special economic zoning under Schedule 9 are deeply concerning. These measures undermine the progress made in environmental conservation and threaten the natural and agricultural assets that define Canada. It is imperative that policymakers prioritize the protection of the environment and the preservation of biodiversity to ensure a sustainable future for all. This policy would not make Ontario safer, but expose it to unforeseen repercussions over short sighted ideals, it would be foolish to follow through with this decision and its changes.

A final Note: The older generations these days continually put the future of this planet on their descendants, yet we are ignored when asked what we want to inherit. We do not want to be heirs to a country guided by bills that put human selfishness over the environment that has sustained all of us.