One of the challenges faced by the United Nations in addressing global environmental issues is to find politically agreeable strategies that promote action at the national level. One approach is to designate observances, such as the 2010 International Year of Biodiversity (IYB). While the UN has used these international designations for several years, the results achieved from them are rarely examined, particularly at the national level. This research asked: How has the International Year of Biodiversity been used to initiate actions that protect biodiversity in Canada? It developed a case study, based on data collected from a documentation review, semi-structured interviews, and collaborative dialogues designed to further explore preliminary findings. Data were analysed qualitatively. Results converged around six findings, primarily around the Year's use as a communications tool. Ten recommendations aim to guide future uses of international designations in Canada as a tool to address global environmental issues.