Since Environment and Climate Change Canada was established 50 years ago, Canada has participated and led important domestic and international progress on climate change. Check out this timeline to explore some of the major moments in Canada’s history of global climate change action. This will be done by decade, beginning from 1970. 

The establishment of the Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) in 1971 was the country’s first step into the conservation efforts we see today.

The ECCC was made possible by combining the Meteorological Service of Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service and Water Survey of Canada in 1971. This made Canada the second country in the world to establish a formal Department of the Environment. Their mission is to “inform Canadians about protecting and conserving our natural heritage, and ensuring a clean, safe and sustainable environment for present and future generations.”

In 1972, the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement was signed by Canada and the United States. This agreement aimed to restore and enhance the water quality in the Great Lakes system, and helped create a framework for future conservation cooperation between the two countries.

Following the agreement in 1973, Canada passed The Canada Wildlife Act. Which ensured the creation, protection and management of National Wildlife Areas. 

Although we were far from being done, Canada had already made significant effort in conserving our planet’s environment from 1970-1973. The milestones achieved during this time were vital to setting the foundation for future climate action.