New Report Spotlights Ontario’s Greenbelt as Strategic Asset for Food Security and Economic Prosperity

Author of the article:You can save this article by registering for free here. Or sign-in if you have an account.TORONTO, March 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Greenbelt Foundation has released a new report as part of its Visioning the Future of the Greenbelt series, highlighting the Greenbelt’s role in securing a strong agriculture and agri-food system in Ontario. Considering its geography, interconnected system of working farms, concentration of major food industry clusters, and proximity to the largest consumer market in Canada, the Greenbelt is uniquely positioned to ensure Ontario’s self-reliance amid increasing global uncertainty. Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.Although Canada is the second largest country in the world, in terms of arable agriculture land, it does not rank among the top ten. Ontario’s Greenbelt in the Greater Golden Horseshoe region is a unique strategic asset, where domestic food security meets a trade corridor to the world. As we continue to prepare for global food production risks, increasing environmental pressures, as well economic and trade uncertainty, Ontario’s Greenbelt: The Key to Food Security in the Greater Golden Horseshoe report, authored by the Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute (CAPI), outlines issues and opportunities related to the Greenbelt and Ontario’s agriculture and agri-food sector. Get the latest headlines, breaking news and columns.By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc.A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder.The next issue of Top Stories will soon be in your inbox.We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try againInterested in more newsletters? Browse here.In Ontario, the agri-food system continues to be an engine of economic growth. In 2024 alone, it contributed over $50 billion to the provincial economy and accounted for one third of Canada’s total agri-food gross domestic product (GDP). The Greenbelt serves as a cornerstone of the sector, producing everything from beef cattle and oil seeds to fruits and vegetables; its high-value farmlands cannot be replicated in other parts of the province. Notably, Greenbelt farms generate 68% more revenue per acre than an average Ontario farm. “The strength of Ontario’s food system is rooted in the Greenbelt. As global risks and economic uncertainty increase, protecting our agricultural base is now more critical than ever,” said Edward McDonnell, CEO, Greenbelt Foundation. “We have a unique opportunity to harness the full potential of these world-class agricultural lands and support the province’s growth by investing in Ontario’s agriculture and agri-food sectors, ensuring our food sovereignty, economic resilience, and community well-being. The Greenbelt can become the place where Canadian agriculture comes together, making it an emerging global food asset.” Key facts: Together, these findings show that trade wars not only brought challenges but also uncovered the Greenbelt’s untapped potential. Tyler McCann, Managing Director, Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute (CAPI), said: “Agriculture and food have always been important, but changing geopolitics, climate and economics make land the starting point for an increasingly strategic sector. Land-use decisions made today will have long-term impacts on Ontarians’ ability to eat, work, and live in a strong, productive, and thriving province.” Report recommendations: -30- About the Visioning the Future of the Greenbelt series The Visioning the Future of the Greenbelt series aims to communicate the Greenbelt’s impact; identify opportunities and challenges in increasing its role in climate adaptation, economic resilience, and provincial prosperity; and provide actionable recommendations for decision-makers to ensure the region continues to thrive.

About Greenbelt Foundation Greenbelt Foundation is a charitable organization, solely dedicated to ensuring Ontario’s Greenbelt remains permanent, protected, and prosperous. We make focused investments in its interconnected natural, agricultural, and economic systems, to ensure a working, thriving Greenbelt for all. Ontario’s Greenbelt is the one of the world’s largest, with over two million acres of farmland, forests, wetlands, and rivers working together to provide clean air, fresh water, and a reliable local food source.

About Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute The Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute (CAPI) is an independent, non-partisan, and not-for-profit organization established in 2004. It brings together agri-food leaders to share insights and advance ideas on emerging issues facing the agri-food sector. By providing research, reference materials, and educational resources for stakeholders, CAPI supports long-term growth and prosperity in Canada’s agri-food industry. For media inquiries, please contact: Dina Ni Senior Strategic Communications Advisor media@greenbelt.ca Greenbelt Foundation Social Media: Website: greenbelt.ca Instagram: @ongreenbelt Facebook: Ontario GreenbeltLinkedIn: Greenbelt Foundation Postmedia is committed to maintaining a lively but civil forum for discussion. Please keep comments relevant and respectful. Comments may take up to an hour to appear on the site. You will receive an email if there is a reply to your comment, an update to a thread you follow or if a user you follow comments. Visit our Community Guidelines for more information.