Biodiversity in Ontario's Greenbelt (PDF) - David Suzuki Foundation

Conclusion
If Ontarians understand
and acknowledge the many
benefits of protecting
habitat for plants, animals
and other life forms, the
Greenbelt can fulfill its
promise and become a
model of ecological and
economic innovation for
communities across Canada
and the rest of the world.
The Greenbelt faces pressures. Fragile plants grow on the edge of busy freeways; birds make
their nests on the ledges of apartment buildings; rare trees cling to cliffs overlooking an expanse of
natural and developed lands. The beauty and diversity of the Greenbelt’s vast acreage could never
be replicated by human hands — but it is in our power to protect all that remains on the landscape.
Small actions can make a huge difference. In some cases, mere acknowledgement of the connection
between the natural world and human health will help build communities that adhere to,
rather than exceed, the carrying capacity of the landscape in which they are situated. In others, big
actions, such as the banning of DDT, have resulted in large changes. Given that so many species at
risk remain, the time for concerted action to protect the Greenbelt’s biodiversity is now.
These species need help to survive. Habitat loss and fragmentation are an ongoing threat. Roads,
disturbances and development are taking their toll. Wetlands, woodlands and agricultural lands are
experiencing the eroding pressures of urbanization. Without a resilient landscape, the approaching
threat of climate change becomes ever more significant.
Strong policy currently exists that grants both public entities and private citizens an opportunity
to build and maintain strong natural heritage systems. The Greenbelt Plan and supporting policies
must continue to be implemented thoughtfully in concert with stewardship incentive programs,
educational activities and land securement initiatives to ensure that habitats within the Greenbelt
can be protected and restored.
If Ontarians understand and acknowledge the many benefits of protecting habitat for plants,
animals and other life forms, the Greenbelt can fulfill its promise and become a model of ecological
and economic innovation for communities across Canada and the rest of the world.
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Biodiversity in Ontario’s greenbelt