Green Infrastructure Ontario (GIO) Coalition is an alliance of organizations that share a common vision for a healthy, green Ontario where the economic, social, environmental and health benefits of green infrastructure are fully realized.
Our Mission
GIO’s mission is to bring together organizations to share information, educate and advocate for greater understanding and implementation of green infrastructure across Ontario.
Our Vision
GIO envisions a future in which communities and governments understand the value of natural forms and functions, and invest in their protection and enhancement — a future in which green infrastructure is viewed as an essential component of a healthy and sustainable Ontario. GIO advocates for:
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- Decision-makers in both the public and private sector to quantify the economic, social, environmental and health benefits of green infrastructure.
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- Policy improvements at the municipal, provincial and federal level to facilitate green infrastructure opportunities.
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- A shift in both public and private investment that leads to greater protection and enhancement of green infrastructure.
Our History
The Green Infrastructure Ontario Coalition traces it roots back to a day-long meeting and visioning session held at Artscape Wychwood Barns in September 2009. Sixty people representing municipal and provincial governments, conservation authorities, the landscape trades and environmental organizations came together to discuss shared interests, concerns and ideas related to green infrastructure.
This meeting led to formation of a steering committee, which began the work of building the coalition. Today, GIO comprises 40 member organizations, guided by an 11-member steering committee, and continues to grow.
In 2010, GIO received an Ontario Trillium Foundation grant to review green infrastructure-related legislation and policy, assemble examples of green infrastructure research and best practices, and collaborate with stakeholders across Ontario through an online questionnaire and a series of workshops. This work culminated in the release of a 2012 report (co-authored with Ecojustice) recommending actions the Government of Ontario can take to support green infrastructure across the province.
In 2013, GIO received a three-year Ontario Trillium Foundation grant to continue promoting green infrastructure in Ontario.
JOIN THE COALITION
WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT TO REALIZE OUR VISION FOR THE CONSERVATION, MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENT OF GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE ACROSS ONTARIO.