Celebrating 20 Years of the Greenbelt: A Legacy of Vision and Protection

  February 28, 2025

 Written by Mary-Lou Tanner, Greenbelt Foundation Board Chair

As we mark the 20th anniversary of the Greenbelt, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of pride—pride in what we’ve accomplished together and gratitude for the visionary leaders who laid the foundation for its success.

Long before the Greenbelt came into being, Ontario made bold decisions to protect the Niagara Escarpment and Oak Ridges Moraine. These landscapes, rich in biodiversity and essential to our water systems, were recognized for their irreplaceable value. When the Greenbelt was established in 2005, it built upon those earlier protections, creating a vast, interconnected region that safeguards over 2 million acres of farmland, forests, wetlands, and water resources.

The Greenbelt is more than a line on a map—it’s a living, breathing landscape that strengthens our communities and sustains us in ways we often take for granted. It provides us with clean air, abundant fresh water, local food, and irreplaceable outdoor spaces that enhance our well-being.

Why the Greenbelt Matters More Than Ever

As Ontario continues to grow, the Greenbelt’s role in protecting our environment, agricultural systems, and quality of life becomes even more critical. It is: 

• A Natural Climate Solution – The Greenbelt’s forests, wetlands, and soils act as a natural sponge, absorbing carbon and reducing flood risks. As extreme weather events become more frequent, its role in climate resilience is invaluable. 

• A Thriving Agricultural Region – With hundreds of farms producing fresh, sustainable food, the Greenbelt strengthens our food security and supports Ontario’s farmers, ensuring we have local options for generations to come. 

• An Outdoor Haven – With thousands of trails, parks, and waterways, the Greenbelt offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, paddling, and connecting with nature—essential for both mental and physical well-being. 

• A Pillar of Strong Communities – By supporting local businesses, rural economies, and conservation initiatives, the Greenbelt enhances the economic and social fabric of Ontario. 

While we know we face significant challenges due to climate change, population growth and today external economic threats, we also know that the Greenbelt provides Ontario with a very unique and irreplaceable advantage. 

A Shared Commitment to the Future

Over the past two decades, we’ve worked alongside farmers, conservationists, businesses, and community leaders to make the Greenbelt stronger and more resilient. Together, we have: 

• Invested in soil health and water protection to support sustainable farming and clean drinking water. 

• Expanded and enhanced outdoor recreation by supporting trails, parks, and ecotourism initiatives. 

• Partnered with municipalities and conservation groups to build natural infrastructure that improves flood resilience. 

• Advocated for policies that ensure the Greenbelt remains permanently protected for future generations. 

Being part of this journey has been deeply rewarding. Seeing individuals and families enjoy Greenbelt trails, watching our local food economy grow, and knowing that our efforts help protect Ontario’s water and natural heritage fills me with optimism for the future – despite the challenges we face. 

Thank You to Our Greenbelt Community 

This milestone belongs to all of us — farmers, conservationists, business owners, policymakers, and the many Ontarians who cherish the Greenbelt. Your dedication has made the Greenbelt an internationally recognized global success story. 

As we look ahead, let’s keep this momentum going. Whether it’s visiting a local farm, hiking a beloved trail, paddling an urban river valley, or sharing what the Greenbelt means to you, every action helps secure its future. 

Here’s to 20 years of success—and to an even brighter future for the Greenbelt! 

Watch our 20th anniversary video here!