Statement on Proposed Changes to the Greenbelt
November 4, 2022
Since 2005, the Greenbelt Foundation has worked to strengthen key natural systems and agricultural lands in the Greater Golden Horseshoe.
A strong Greenbelt ensures that people in southern Ontario have access to clean air and water, local food and natural spaces. Protecting this land, and working to ensure its sustainability and vitality, supports strong rural and urban communities, protects us from increasing extreme weather events, mitigates the impact of climate change and provides access to nature for millions of residents and visitors.
As we work to understand the impacts of today’s proposed changes to the Greenbelt, we will be working with government and key partners to protect and sustain these critical areas and systems."
To grow successfully, it is critical that we build communities that are supported by the agricultural and natural systems that protect our health and well-being. Ontario is made up of communities, and many of those communities rely on the strong agri-food system that strengthens our rural economy. Farmland within the Greenbelt is some of the richest, most fertile in the country and it is in our best interest to balance growing communities alongside the natural systems and farmland that allow those communities to flourish.
As we work to understand the impacts of today’s proposed changes to the Greenbelt, we will be working with government and key partners to protect and sustain these critical areas and systems.
Edward McDonnell
CEO, Greenbelt Foundation