Hello, I am writing today to…

Hello, I am writing today to submit a comment to ERO 019-6216, 019-6217, and 019-6218, pertaining to redesignation of Greenbelt lands.

I am supportive of efforts to increase the supply of home as a means of countering the housing crisis. However, I am deeply concerned about the proposed changes to the Greenbelt.

We have seen over the past few years how the climate crisis is worsening, increasing severe weather and causing grave damage (for example, in Lytton BC). In Southern Ontario, one of the largest risks in a changing climates comes from flooding in population centres, and loss of viable farmland.

The changes suggested in this regulation appear set to make both outcomes worse. The wetlands in protected Greenbelt areas are essential for capturing rainwater runoff before it can flood more populous areas. In addition, by seeking to build new homes in protected areas, Ontario commits itself to expanding urban sprawl - worsening the climate crisis through increased emissions.

I urge the government to keep its promise not to touch the Greenbelt and instead look to build much more densely in urban areas, particular areas with strong transit infrastructure.

Ripping up the Greenbelt is short-sighted and dangerous, and will only make homes more expensive in the long run by imposing greater environmental risks and expanding unsustainable and inefficient sprawl. This government must take real, meaningful action to build sustainably for the future instead.