I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my deep concern over the environmental implications of Bill 66.
I am one of the 90% of Ontarians who support the Greenbelt. I support the protection of valuable arable land for farming. I support the protection of green space for recreation. I support the promotion of density in urban areas so we can protect our surrounding natural environment for future generations. Once the greenbelt is paved or developed it cannot be undone. We know that land use is one of the three key drivers of climate change. We also know, as per the IPCC's SR15, that climate change has reached a do or die moment. Quite literally we are fighting for the survival of our species. The greenbelt must stay green. We need the environmental services that it provides. It is a carbon sink, it protects the wetlands that provide habitat, clean our water and prevent flooding, it is the breadbasket of our region.
Legislation that deregulates protection of this valuable area is woefully misguided to the point of stupidity. Ontario has lands where it makes sense to develop. Our urban areas have enough space for additional industry and manufacturing jobs. The housing crisis can be solved within urban boundaries where it makes sense for transit and employment opportunities. Protect our green space for the millions of people who depend upon it now for clean water, clean air, climate regulation, healthy food, and recreational opportunities, not to mention the significant benefits these provide to the economy. Protect it now for us but also for our children and grandchildren. Be remembered as a government whose legacy was truly for the people, a government responsible for creating a better future. Not as a government blinded by partisan politics, backroom business dealings, and a terrifying lack of understanding of the implications of the climate crisis.

I support the Greenbelt
I support the Clean Water Act
I support the Great Lakes Protection Act
I support a clean, green present and future for all of us

As an Ontarian with two small children, I do not support Bill 66 or a government that would resort to such a blind economic growth strategy.