Council Statement: Naturalization Carbon Sequestration

The trees currently being placed in City Parks are part of an initiative to naturalize areas to reduce our community’s carbon footprint and sequester (capture) carbon dioxide in the atmosphere through naturalization. Naturalization is the process of transforming a cultivated landscape, into a landscape more indicative of the natural landscape of our region.

Since the project was announced and planting began, some neighbourhoods have expressed concern about the impact on open space in their parks and about not being consulted on where trees have been or will be planted. Council has heard from many individuals and has discussed the plan at great length.

On behalf of Council, I apologize to residents; this project has gotten off on the wrong foot.

We acknowledge that we should have taken more time to talk with residents about this initiative and to explain the importance of introducing new naturalized areas to our city. Natural areas in the era of climate change are our buffer, which will protect us from changes in climate and invasive species.

We know you care about climate change. Our recent Citizen Satisfaction Survey made it clear that sustainability is a priority for our residents who want the City to take action and you want us to participate in climate action.  

The Ward Councillor, staff and I will meet with neighbours of Tupper-Laurier Park in the coming days.

In project areas where planting has not yet occurred, we will provide residents the opportunity to give feedback before planting takes place.

Mayor Danny Breen