The Ozone Secretariat is sad to note the passing of Dr. Daniel Lee Albritton, one of the first co-chairs of the Scientific Assessment Panel (SAP) of the Montreal Protocol and head of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) earlier Aeronomy Laboratory from 1986 until his retirement in 2006.

Dr. Albritton was a pioneer in atmospheric science, especially in bringing critical scientific issues such as ozone layer depletion, acid rain, and climate change to decision-makers. In addition to his many scientific findings, he is most remembered for instituting the science assessment process used for the ozone layer, climate change, and air quality science at the national and international levels. As SAP co-chair, he successfully co-led the work of the Panel in producing several milestone scientific reports and quadrennial assessments during the first two decades of the life of the Montreal Protocol. His career has been a prime example of science and scientists serving national and international needs and using science for the benefit of humanity.

Dr. Albritton was also an unsurpassed communicator. As a major spokesman on atmospheric science to policymakers, scientists, and the general public alike, he conveyed complex science in a language people could understand. His hand-drawn figures and cartoon are legendary. They were even published in NY Times!

Those who had the privilege to know him note that he was extraordinarily hard-working but still found time for his family and colleagues; that he was a gentle, kind, and incredibly humane person who treated everyone with respect, tolerance, and kindness. He leaves a large hole in the field of science and the ozone family. He will be sorely missed.