This legislation is…

This legislation is concerning. Human development is one of the main drivers of habitat loss and decreasing biodiversity, and should not be allowed to be undertaken lightly.

One of my main concerns is that the government will have discretion on what species are protected, and that it seems that development activities can start without an initial review.

This government has already shown callous disregard for established and important natural areas, and a preference towards developers who are motivated by profit, and would gladly ignore the biodiversity that we all depend on for a healthy and sustainable environment. But any government could be potentially swayed for the purposes of profit.

Allowing a developer-first approach encourages the "paving over" of natural areas such as wetlands (which are important for not only biodiversity, but also flood mitigation) already taking place.

It also reduces the incentive to redevelop lots that are already in urban areas, instead of limiting urban sprawl. My concern is that this legislation can accelerate the slow death and destruction of our natural environment around us, which we all depend on for our health and well-being.