Uploaded on 2015-11-15 by dmesbur

**Lake Ontario and River System** Lake Ontario provides the major source of water for the city as well as waste management, through efficient water filtration and waste management systems. The Don and Humber Rivers which cut through the city's ravines provide support for wetlands which are the habitat for numerous wildlife species. The lake also provides a waterway connecting through the Great Lakes for shipping and commerce as well as tourism for boating. several islands in the lake offer recreational facilities, an international inner-city airport, and habitation. **Toronto Urban Forest and Greenbelt** ![Aerial view of Toronto][1] Toronto is one of the greenest cities with more than 10 million trees, providing estimated 28% tree canopy cover. This resources provides the equivalent of over $28 million in ecological services per year. Among the benefits are a reduction in residential heating and cooling costs of $16.9 million, air quality improvement through the interception of pollutants valued at $16.9 million per year, and the storage of 1.1 million metric tonne of carbon, equivalent to 733,000 car emissions. The surrounding greenbelt has been instrumental in curbing urban sprawl, thus supporting higher densities in the outlying areas. This in turn has created suburban neighborhoods with better amenities, transit and variety of housing than would be possible with lower density communities. In terms of economic benefits from ecosystem services, the greenbelt contributes $2.6 billion annually, through carbon reduction, air protection, watershed support, pollination, biodiversity, recreation and agricultural values. [1]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/14476001892571393.jpg