Today, I witnessed the destruction of over 800 mature trees and the loss of critical habitat for countless species in downtown Toronto—casualties of a government prioritizing the wealth of the few over the well-being of the many. This is yet another chapter in Doug Ford's legacy of greed and corruption.
The loss of these trees isn’t just environmental; it’s also a cultural and psychological blow to the community. Natural spaces like these are essential for the mental and physical well-being of residents. Their destruction robs us of more than just greenery—it strips away places of refuge, reflection, and connection to nature. The powerlessness I felt standing at the site today is emblematic of what so many of us feel when political decisions prioritize profit over people and planet.
As an academic and advocate for sustainable development, I believe my role extends beyond advancing innovation—it includes documenting the devastating effects of political actions and inactions. To that end, I’ve created a 3D map showing the stark contrast between the vibrant natural space I captured this summer and the barren landscape left behind today.
This map is more than just documentation—it is an act of bearing witness. It tells the story of a place that mattered, both to the ecosystem and to the people who cherished it. By sharing this visual record, I hope to help others see what has been lost. While it shows the change, it cannot fully convey the grief felt as I listened to the cries of displaced herons and red-tailed hawks, knowing there are many more silent casualties.
We are being robbed—of our trees, our wildlife, and the natural spaces that sustain our communities.
Faculty of Engineering and Architectural Science at Toronto Metropolitan University Ontario Place THERME GROUP City of Toronto
