As a grade 9 student…

As a grade 9 student studying geography, analyzing real-world issues incorporates comprehending current political policies, such as the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH) Growth Plan. The Growth Plan proposes great intentions to help support southern Ontario by situating communities in close proximity, to avoid the construction of unnecessary infrastructure. Although the outline is undoubtedly a terrific solution, there were two amendments which concern me.

To begin with, I disagree with the 1.2 amendment which further amends by deleting,“ a clean and healthy environment,” and “social equity,” and replacing it with “an approach that puts people first.” The primary motive of the GGH Growth Plan is to improve and develop communities in the province while preserving the environment. Plants release oxygen and collect carbon dioxide, enabling us to breathe air, and they form habitats and ecosystems for animals to live in. Therefore, they must be considered a top priority. Future generations will also depend on the surrounding natural areas for multiple things, such as agriculture, and if this amendment proceeds forward, they are left with no resources for survival. Regarding social equity, everyone in society deserves to have equal rights. Instead of achieving a highly sustainable environment and an impartial society for the upcoming citizens of Ontario, removing social equity will only promote further injustice and inequitable treatment.

Secondly, I disagree with the 3.2.1.2 amendment that adds “environmental planning,” by deleting “infrastructure master plans, asset management plans, community energy plans, watershed planning, environmental assessments, and other.” While environmental planning is beneficial, it lacks the number of advantages and is less valuable when compared to the other items. Infrastructure master plans, community energy plans, watershed planning, and environmental assessments allow a community to be more efficient and without them, the future generation will face more conflicts. For example, community energy plans aid to conserve energy, reduce carbon footprint, and help make an area sustainable. Infrastructure master plans, which include sewage systems, public transits, and electric grids, are utilized to create productive neighborhoods for residents to have access to water, transportation, and electricity. Without these things, a community loses its power to function effectively reducing the quality of life.

In conclusion, I believe that these two amendments counter the benefits and advantages of the Greater Golden Horseshoe Growth Plan concerning the goal to develop the land through a smarter method and should be removed. Thank you for reading, and I hope and you consider my suggestions in the letter in your proposed outline.