Opinion: No Clearcuts Kingston calls for Independent Environmental Impact Assessment of proposed development
Opinion: No Clearcuts Kingston calls for Independent Environmental Impact Assessment of proposed development Kingstonist
sdgtalks
An Independent Environmental Impact Assessment Needed for Proposed Development near Collins Creek
Editor’s note: The following is a submitted opinion piece from local environmental advocacy organization ‘No Clearcuts Kingston.’ The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Kingstonist.
Introduction
Citizens concerned about yet another local woodland facing a possible clearcut have called for an independent Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of a proposed development near Collins Creek. This article highlights the importance of conducting an EIA and emphasizes the need to align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Development and Environmental Concerns
- The proposed development at 4085, 4091, and 4097 Bath Road threatens more than 750 mature trees and hundreds of smaller trees, as well as the diverse plant and wildlife habitat they support.
- This woodland is ecologically significant as it serves as a vital connecting piece of the Collin’s Creek watershed, linking Lake Ontario and provincially significant wetlands, woodlands, and valley lands.
- Citizens in the Collins Creek area believe that an independent third party should conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) to ensure unbiased results and study methods that are publicly available for review.
- The credibility of the present analysis is being questioned due to the involvement of private consultants paid by the developer to conduct ecological and tree assessments. This financial conflict of interest can affect research outcomes and undermines the integrity of the assessment process.
- The methodology and study results of the company that conducted the EIS for this application have been repeatedly challenged by ecological experts.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – The proposed development raises concerns about the loss of green spaces and biodiversity within the urban boundary, which goes against the Official Plan’s planning policies.
- Goal 15: Life on Land – The destruction of mature trees and wildlife habitat contradicts the commitment to maintain forest cover and protect natural heritage corridors.
Call for Action
Given the ecological significance of this woodland and the Collins Bay watershed, it is critical to have an objective, financially independent third-party assessment before a final City Council decision is made on Tuesday, Apr. 16, 2024. Councillor Lisa Osanic plans to introduce a motion deferring this vote until all proper studies are complete and made public.
Conclusion
The proposed development near Collins Creek raises environmental concerns and highlights the need for an independent Environmental Impact Assessment. It is essential to prioritize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensure that development aligns with the principles of sustainable cities and communities, as well as the preservation of life on land. By conducting a thorough assessment, we can make informed decisions that protect our natural heritage and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Join us, as fellow seekers of change, on a transformative journey at https://sdgtalks.ai/welcome, where you can become a member and actively contribute to shaping a brighter future.
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