Ali Shayvard
"Protecting Ottawa's natural areas, biodiversity and wildlife habitat is very important to me.
As Ottawa grows, we need to build around and alongside nature, not simply remove it. Forests, wetlands, waterways, green spaces and wildlife corridors should be considered from the beginning when new communities are planned.
I also believe we can create and restore natural spaces where they are missing. Growth and environmental protection do not have to work against each other if we plan properly.
As Mayor, I will work with developers, planners and communities to make sure protecting and expanding natural spaces is part of the development process. Ottawa will continue to grow, and my goal is to make sure nature grows with us.
We can build the housing and infrastructure people need while protecting the natural Ottawa we want future generations to enjoy."
Jeff Leiper
"Ottawa is fortunate to have significant greenspace, forests, wetlands and waterways, and I have consistently supported protecting those natural areas as our city grows.
Throughout my time on Council, I have supported stronger protection for greenspace and mature trees, protecting watersheds and preserving natural environments. I have also opposed expanding the urban boundary where we can accommodate growth within the existing urban area.
I support the goals of protecting and restoring biodiversity in Ottawa. As we grow, we need to make sure our planning decisions protect important natural areas and that we use the tools available to the City to preserve greenspace.
This also needs to be part of how we think about growth more broadly. We can build the housing Ottawa needs while protecting the natural areas, farmland and waterways that are an important part of our city."
Neil Saravanamuttoo
"My approach connects biodiversity protection with practical investments that protect residents from flooding and extreme heat.
City tree planting will prioritize a diverse mix of native species suited to local conditions and a changing climate, providing food and shelter for birds, pollinators and other wildlife. Community tree councils will help identify planting priorities, while five-year tree survival contracts and support for neighbourhood tree care will ensure these investments deliver lasting benefits.
Rain gardens and other nature-based stormwater projects will also use native species. These projects will absorb and slow excess runoff, reduce flood risks and restore habitat in existing neighbourhoods.
Prioritizing growth and infrastructure investment within existing communities will also help reduce pressure to develop natural areas. Together, these measures will contribute to Ottawa's biodiversity objectives, alongside the broader land and water protection measures needed to achieve the 30% commitment."
Peter Westaway
"Mostly by aggressively planting trees and building a large proper greenbelt outside of the city."