Trees improve the livability of a city in countless ways. They beautify our neighbourhoods as well as increase air quality and reduce smog. It's estimated that Toronto's trees store 1.1 million metric tonnes of carbon, which is equivalent to the yearly carbon emissions from over 700,000 automobiles. Trees also improve storm water management. In fact, studies have shown that every 5% of tree cover in a community reduces storm water runoff by 2%.
In December, Urban Forestry submitted a report to City Council titled Growing Space for Trees: Protecting and Enhancing the Tree Canopy While Supporting Infill Housing. While Toronto's tree canopy is growing steadily, residential infill construction continues to threaten many healthy, mature trees. Of particular concern is the conversion of pervious land – which is capable of supporting tree growth – to impervious land, which could include driveways, patios, or basements. Because trees cannot be planted on impervious land, some residential developments can impact the health of existing trees and limit the opportunity to expand our canopy.
In the report, City staff outline their plan to examine Toronto's zoning and planning frameworks to identify how we can both preserve and create new space for canopy growth. Some of the policies scheduled for review include the Official Plan, Zoning By-law 569-2013, Zoning By-law for Low Rise Residential Zones, and regulations for basements.
In tandem, you will be pleased to know that City staff are preparing to report back to the Planning & Housing Committee on my motion regarding the impacts of iceberg houses later this year. Iceberg houses are commonly understood to be single-family dwellings with multi-storey, underground basements that protrude beyond the above-ground portion of the structure. Many of the concerns related to impervious land are closely tied to iceberg house basements and City staff are considering these matters holistically. I have been anticipating an update on this important issue and look forward to the upcoming staff report.
