Do Not Remove Environmental…

Do Not Remove Environmental Assessment Requirements

I am writing to express my strong opposition to ERO 025-0389 and the proposed exemption of York1 Environmental Waste Solutions Ltd.'s Regenerative Recycling Facility from the requirements of Ontario’s Environmental Assessment Act.

This project, located near Dresden, Ontario, would result in the permanent loss of prime agricultural farmland, a vital and irreplaceable resource to Ontario’s food system and rural economy. It would also be situated in close proximity to Molly’s Creek and the Sydenham River—one of the most biodiverse river systems in the country. The potential environmental risks associated with this development warrant greater scrutiny, not less.

The area is home to an exceptional number of Species at Risk, which would be directly impacted by increased industrial activity, runoff, and habitat disruption. These include:
Mussels at Risk

Eastern Pondmussel, Fawnsfoot, Kidneyshell, Lilliput, Mapleleaf, Northern Riffleshell, Purple Wartyback, Rainbow, Rayed Bean, Round Hickorynut, Round Pigtoe, Salamander Mussel, Snuffbox, Threehorn Wartyback, Wavy-rayed Lampmussel.
Fishes at Risk

Blackstripe Topminnow, Eastern Sand Darter, Grass Pickerel, Northern Madtom, Northern Sunfish, Pugnose Minnow, Pugnose Shiner, River Darter, Silver Lamprey, Spotted Sucker.
Snakes at Risk

Eastern Foxsnake, Eastern Hog-nosed Snake, Eastern Milksnake.
Turtles at Risk

Blanding’s Turtle, Midland Painted Turtle, Northern Map Turtle, Snapping Turtle, Spiny Softshell.

These species and the fragile ecosystems they depend on cannot be protected without a comprehensive Environmental Assessment. To consider exempting a facility of this size—processing up to 6,000 tonnes of construction and demolition waste per day—is both reckless and deeply concerning.

Adding to the confusion, March 15, 2024, the Minister of the Environment, Andrea Khanjin, issued a public statement on X (formerly Twitter) expressing her support for a full Environmental Assessment of this project. That the MECP is now entertaining an exemption directly contradicts that position and reflects serious backpedaling on a critical issue of public trust and ecological responsibility.

The EA process is not a formality—it is a foundational safeguard. Skipping it for a project with such clear and significant risks sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the very purpose of the Environmental Assessment Act.

I urge the Ministry to reject this proposal and ensure that a full Environmental Assessment is conducted. Ontario’s farmland, waterways, and communities deserve better.