THE PROBLEM
For decades, unchecked urban sprawl has paved over Canada’s best remaining farmland and sensitive natural areas. Inefficient land use has compromised ecosystems and the wildlife that inhabit them, polluted water supplies, and has cost taxpayers billions in unnecessary infrastructure costs.
The Solution
We need a strong leadership that understands the importance of growing smarter. Directing growth to existing urban areas improves the protection of farms, nature and water. It also saves taxpayers from paying for expensive sprawl, lowers our carbon pollution, and reduces congestion. This allows us to create communities with better access to services like public transit, recreation and shopping. By growing smarter, we all win.
Breaking News
King Township rejects a "Trojan Horse" request for a Minster's Zoning Order to allow development in the Greenbelt
On Monday Dec 14, 2020, by a margin of six votes to one, King Township Council refused to endorse a “trojan horse” request for a...
Learn MoreHow to respond to form letters sent by Ontario MPPs regarding the province's attack on Conservation Authorities
Many of you have written or called your MPP expressing concern about the attacks on our wetlands, forests and safety included in the Ontario government’s...
Learn MoreThe Ontario Government is failing to protect the Greenbelt
This is a guest blog by concerned residents of Claremont, Ontario. In May 2018, Premier Ford wrote: “Unequivocally, we won’t touch the Greenbelt […] people...
Learn MoreOntario's Auditor General issues a scathing report on the province's environmental actions
Ontario’s Auditor General Bonnie Lysyk tabled a scathing annual report on environmental issues this week, blasting the Province once again for failing to do the...
Learn MoreWHAT YOU CAN DO
You can help protect Ontario’s farmland, nature and water and support smart growth. By signing petitions, getting involved with a local residents group, you can make your voice heard to create positive change.
Tell the Ontario government you don't want a warehouse complex built on rare and provincially significant wetlands in Pickering
take action.
Tell the province to protect the Paris Galt Moraine in the same way as the Oak Ridges Moraine to protect our vulnerable waters, farmland and wildlife
take action now.
Tell your MP to support the shift to cleaner vehicles
take action now.
Stop the destructive Highway 413
take action.
Timeline of our success
"Environmental Defence has been a strong ally and resource for us as we work to protect greenspace, remaining farmland and the Greenbelt in York Region, while advocating for an end to urban sprawl and reducing unbearable traffic gridlock."
-Sony Rai, Founder, Sustainable Vaughan, Ontario.
MEET THE TEAM
At Environmental Defence, we educate the public about a host of environmental issues, work with business and government leaders to advise on policy decisions and mobilize Canadians to create the cleaner, greener more prosperous country we’re striving for. Meet the team who works on creating livable communities.
Join The Community
Change happens when people like you express your concern and make your voice heard. Join our email community to receive updates about Environmental Defence’s work and find ways you can help our efforts to defend clean water, a safe climate and healthy communities.