Executive Summary Ontario’s…

Executive Summary

Ontario’s communities and economy thrive when infrastructure and transit growth balances safety, climate action, and ecosystem protection. Bill 60 must ensure Vision Zero, public transit, and natural carbon sinks are safeguarded to protect both people and our climate goals.

I support infrastructure and transit development in Ontario that strengthens the economy while protecting public safety, community well-being, and the environment. Bill 60 proposes amendments that risk weakening environmental and climate safeguards, limiting municipal and public oversight, and reducing accountability.

Key concerns include:

Restrictions on active transportation, bus lanes, and speed cameras, undermining Vision Zero (municipal frameworks) and road safety.

Highway expansion that worsens congestion and emissions through induced demand, rather than prioritizing sustainable transit.

Transfers and consolidation of water and wastewater responsibilities that may reduce climate-resilient management.

Reduced alignment of planning approvals with climate, biodiversity, and watershed protections.

Natural ecosystems are critical carbon sinks and provide essential services. Canada’s wetlands deliver an estimated $225 billion per year in ecosystem services, while Ontario’s forests, freshwater systems, and biodiversity contribute roughly $50 billion per year, supporting carbon storage, water purification, flood control, and biodiversity. To meet climate emission goals, these ecosystems and their value must not be eroded.

In order to do better for Ontarians, I respectfully request that the government revisit the bill and:

Reinstate environmental and climate impact assessments for projects affected by these schedules.

Embed explicit protections for climate, biodiversity, water systems, and natural resources in development, transit, and water management.

Ensure meaningful public consultation and transparency to guide decisions that balance long-term economic growth, climate action, and community safety.

The accompanying document provides detailed analysis of each schedule, evidence-based recommendations, and supporting sources to guide decisions that balance economic growth, climate action, and community safety.