Removing Environmental…

Removing Environmental Assessment Requirements for the York1 Waste Disposal Site Project (ERO number 25-0389)

I am writing to formally express my objection to the Government of Ontario’s proposed Bill 5, the "Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act, 2025," which seeks to remove environmental assessment requirements for significant projects, including the proposed York1 “Dresden Landfill” waste disposal site.

This proposed legislation undermines critical legal protections that are essential for safeguarding our environment, human health, and Indigenous rights. The removal of environmental assessments for the Dresden landfill project not only jeopardizes public trust but also poses a significant threat to the ecological integrity of the surrounding areas, particularly the Sydenham River, which is recognized as one of Canada’s most biodiverse freshwater ecosystems.

The decision to exempt this project from a comprehensive environmental review is concerning for several reasons:

Lack of Comprehensive Risk Analysis:
The termination of environmental assessments will prevent a thorough evaluation of the potential risks associated with the landfill, including groundwater contamination, toxic leachate runoff, and methane emissions. These risks have far-reaching implications for both human health and the environment.

Erosion of Environmental Protections:
Bill 5 would erode the core functions of the environmental assessment process by removing requirements to consider the need for and alternatives to the proposed project. This undermines the principles of informed decision-making and public accountability.

Community Trust and Commitment:
During recent electoral campaigns, commitments were made by local representatives, including MPP Steve Pinsonneault, to uphold the promise of a full environmental assessment for the York1 landfill project. The introduction of this legislation without public consultation or transparency is a betrayal of that commitment and the trust of the community.

Threat to Biodiversity:
The proposed site’s proximity to sensitive wetlands and its location on a floodplain raise significant concerns. The potential to receive up to 500 tonnes of asbestos waste daily further exacerbates these risks, particularly for vulnerable species, including over 20 species at risk that inhabit the area.

The urgency of this matter cannot be overstated. The proposed legislation seeks to eliminate the promised environmental review without adequate public discourse or consideration of the environmental consequences. This approach prioritizes political expediency over responsible governance and environmental stewardship.

In light of these concerns, I urge the Government of Ontario to withdraw Bill 5 and reaffirm its commitment to a full, transparent environmental assessment for the York1 landfill project. Upholding this commitment is essential to ensuring the protection of our environment, the health of our communities, and the preservation of our natural heritage.

Thank you for considering this objection. I hope that decision-makers will prioritize the well-being of the community and the environment in their deliberations.