New Study Finds That Affordable Water for All Michiganders Is Possible
Water is a human right and many people in Michigan suffer without running water because their water bills have grown to be unaffordable. A new study by Moonshot Missions, in partnership with Freshwater Future, We the People of Detroit, and the National Wildlife Federation, has found that water affordability is economically feasible in Michigan and can be applied to both rural and urban communities. Read more about the report and download it here.
Giving the Gift of Clean and Safe Water!
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated on #GivingTuesday on November 29th. Your generosity helped us raise additional funds to help more people access clean and safe water resources. It’s not too late to celebrate #GivingTuesday! You can ensure a brighter future and help make lasting change for our region through your financial support today. Please support Freshwater Future’s efforts on #GivingTuesday by making a financial gift, no matter the size. Click HERE to give your gift today.
Still Time to Weigh In: Bill 23, More Homes Built Faster Passed in Ontario Legislature
Despite significant criticism from many sectors (municipalities, affordable housing and environmental organizations), Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act, 2022 was passed in the Ontario legislature this week. There was considerable debate about the Bill at the Standing Committee on Heritage, Infrastructure and Cultural Policy in mid-November and this, in addition to comments received through the Environmental Registry of Ontario (ERO), led to some significant amendments (i.e. restoring third party rights of appeal and Environmental Features and Site Plan Control by municipalities); however, the Bill, as passed, has alarming implications for Conservation Authorities, the Greenbelt (protected wetlands, woodland and agricultural lands), and the future of environmental planning in the province.
While this feels like a defeat, it is more important than ever to stay engaged in the process. There are still opportunities to amend the impact of this legislation by providing comments on the ERO postings. These postings will determine the development of implementing policy and regulations, essentially how the Bill is rolled out. The Canadian Environmental Law Association is maintaining a chart of the relevant postings and deadlines. If you live outside of Ontario, please consider elevating this Bill, and its impacts on the health of the Great Lakes, with the Federal Government by writing directly to Prime Minister Trudeau through Freshwater Future’s Action Alert.
National Climate Adaptation Forum
Check out this short description of Freshwater Future’s presentation about our Flood Focus App here.
