Arguments in Favor of the 2023 Building Permit Ban - Part 1

While many remain skeptical or even antagonistic toward the impending build out of 2023, especially as it relates to Florida Keys real estate,  there are many who argue strongly in favor of enforcing this law for a variety of reasons that benefit both the residents of the Keys and its fragile natural environment.

When the Florida Environmental Land and Water Management Act of 1972 was passed it was meant to protect “Areas of Critical Concern” like the Florida Keys. For proponents of the 2023 build out, this is exactly what enforcement of the building ban will do. Overdevelopment has led to an ever shrinking natural landscape in the Keys, one of the most fragile and unique environments in the country. It has also led to the partial disappearance of the habitats for the special animals that inhabit the Keys, many of which are currently on the endangered species list. Included amongst these are the Key Largo cotton mouse, marsh rabbit of the Lower Keys, Key Largo wood rat, and the famous Key Deer of Big Pine Key. Stopping new developments and properties from being built will help to eliminate more loss of habitat and create new areas for these endangered animals to thrive.

It is no secret that rising sea levels will have a huge impact on the Florida Keys. With approximately 90% of the Florida Keys landmass at or below 5 feet above sea level, it is inevitable that the coastline will feel the effects of rising sea levels in the Keys. The Nature Conservancy estimates that areas of the Keys, including parts of Big Pine Key will certainly be under water within decades without serious intervention. Environmental protection groups are in favor of keeping the 2023 building ban in place so that necessary attention and resources can be diverted to tackling the problem of rising sea levels to save the natural environment.

In addition to arguments related to protecting the natural landscape of the Keys, many argue in favor of enforcing the building ban from a more human perspective. Continue reading about the resident element here.