Ahmed Rashid
“I will push for a real inventory of Ottawa's aquatic, terrestrial, and aerial spaces so we know what we are protecting and where. Then I will prioritize permanent protection for the most ecologically significant lands, including wetlands, urban forests, and shoreline areas. I will also require biodiversity impact assessments for major developments and push for native species planting in city parks and along pathways. Thirty per cent is a floor, not a ceiling. Protecting nature is also flood protection, heat protection, and clean water. It all connects.”
Donna Dickson
"Personally, I would like to see more than just 30% protected. In my platform, I know that I would like to develop housing in some of the undeveloped space in Ward 10, but I think that it is necessary to conduct environmental impact surveys for new developments to minimize impact. Our wetlands are vital for being climate resilient, and should be barred from development whenever possible. Protecting the old growth on our greenspace and forests will also be important, as these areas are irreplicable when destroyed.
Organized shoreline cleanup by the city would be an excellent use of time, and an excellent volunteer opportunity for younger people to learn more and get involved in sustainability practices, in addition to helping maintain our waterways. The city could also pass bylaws limiting the use of certain fertilizers and pesticides that are known to be harmful to the ecosystem. "