The proposed changes are a…

The proposed changes are a step backward in protecting species at risk in Ontario. Firstly, narrowing down the definition of habitat to just the immediate area around a dwelling and/or the dwelling itself doesn't consider the other habitat uses of species. Some travel kilometers to find food, and don't occupy their dwellings all the time. Further, environmental assessments are CRUCIAL for making sure projects don't harm habitats and the species that rely on them. Fast-tracking projects without assessments and proper consultations with impacted groups, as well as creating those "special economic zones" will put more species and habitats at risk. Please do some more research, talk to more people, and make more evidence-based decisions here. Our environment deserves better.