June 23

Events - Nature & Environment

1887day.year

The Rocky Mountains Park Act becomes law in Canada creating the nation's first national park, Banff National Park.

Canada’s Rocky Mountains Park Act established Banff National Park, creating the nation’s first protected park.
On June 23, 1887, the Canadian Parliament passed the Rocky Mountains Park Act, officially creating Banff National Park. Situated in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff became Canada’s first legally protected conservation area. The Act aimed to preserve majestic peaks, glaciers, and diverse wildlife while encouraging tourism and scientific study. Early park rangers were appointed to manage visitor activities and enforce preservation rules. Balancing environmental protection with rail and road access, Banff set a precedent for national parks across Canada. Today, Banff is celebrated as a UNESCO World Heritage site and a model for conservation efforts worldwide.
1887 Rocky Mountains Park Act national park Banff National Park
1961day.year

The Antarctic Treaty System, which sets aside Antarctica as a scientific preserve and limits military activity on the continent, its islands and ice shelves, comes into force.

The Antarctic Treaty System comes into force, establishing Antarctica as a demilitarized scientific preserve.
Signed by twelve nations in 1959, the Antarctic Treaty System entered into force on June 23, 1961. The agreement designates Antarctica as a zone dedicated to peaceful scientific research and bans military activity on the continent and its offshore regions. It prohibits nuclear explosions and the disposal of nuclear waste while promoting freedom of scientific investigation and international cooperation. The treaty applies to land, ice shelves, and surrounding waters south of 60°S latitude. Over time, additional protocols and measures have strengthened environmental protection and conservation of Antarctic ecosystems. The system remains a model for international governance, balancing national interests with the preservation of a unique global commons.
1961 Antarctic Treaty System