We’re halfway into an early snap provincial election period with only two weeks to go until Ontarians hit the polls on February 27.

​​​​Our heads may still be spinning from the suddenness of it all and the confusing threats coming from the south. But that’s all the more reason to take a deep breath and make a plan to vote now.

Here’s our 3 step guide to make this election count for nature:

Step 1: Register and learn how to vote on February 27, in advance or by mail.

Step 2: Take stock of what’s at stake.

There’s a lot to consider before going to the ballot box. Environmental issues can often take a backseat amid tariff worries, public healthcare decline, underfunded education and a housing crisis.

But there is a lot at stake, including addressing the climate and biodiversity crises that are deeply intertwined with the quality of life you and I want for ourselves, our children and our children’s children.

This election is your chance to choose a government that will protect life-giving nature and wilderness, enhance protections for species at risk and support clean renewable energy.

Step 3: Talk to your candidates and networks.

Here’s our short list of questions to ask those seeking your vote, as well as to bring up with family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. Click on the links to find out more about the issues.

Will your party:

• Make a target and plan to grow protected places in Ontario to 30 per cent by 2030 in line with federal commitments?
• Close the loopholes in Ontario’s endangered species laws to ensure critical habitat is actually protected from destructive industries and development ?
• Cancel the Greenbelt-crossing, waterway polluting, sprawl-inducing new highways 413 and Bradford Bypass, and invest in public transit and affordable housing in built areas instead?  
• Reverse cuts to the province’s Conservation Authorities and wetland protections?
• Respect and invest in Indigenous-led conservation projects?
• Reform gravel mining to protect people, water, wildlife and Indigenous rights?
• Phase out dirty gas power-plants and build a clean electricity grid?
   

As a charity, we don’t endorse any candidate or party. Instead, we’re calling on you to ask questions, vote and hold your candidate accountable to do more to protect the lands and waters we all depend on before, during and after the election.