The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer

The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer is a global agreement to protect the Earth’s ozone layer by phasing out the chemicals that deplete it. This phase-out plan includes both the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances. The landmark agreement was signed in 1987 and entered into force in 1989.

The parties to the Protocol meet once a year to make decisions aimed at ensuring the successful implementation of the agreement. These include adjusting or amending the Protocol, which has been done six times since its creation. The most recent amendment, the Kigali Amendment, called for the phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in 2016. These HFCs were used as replacements for a batch of ozone-depleting substances eliminated by the original Montreal Protocol. Although they do not deplete the ozone layer, they are known to be powerful greenhouse gases and, thus, contributors to climate change.

The Montreal Protocol provided a set of practical, actionable tasks that were universally agreed on. The Protocol has successfully met its objectives thus far and continues to safeguard the ozone layer today. Thanks to the collaborative effort of nations around the world, the ozone layer is well on its way to recovery.

Critical-use exemptions: Thirtieth Meeting of the Parties (Quito, 5-9 November 2018)

Source(s)
Annex to decision XXX/9

Table A

Agreed critical-use categories

(tonnes)a

2020

 

Australia

Strawberry runners 28.98

2019

 

Argentina

Strawberry fruit 15.710

Tomato 25.600

Canada

Strawberry runners (Prince Edward Island) 5.261

South Africa

Mills 1.000

Houses 40.000

a Tonnes = metric tons.

Table B 

Permitted levels of production and consumptiona

(tonnes)b

2020

 

Australia

28.98

2019

Argentina

41.310

Canada

5.261
   

South Africa

41.000

a Minus available stocks.

b Tonnes = metric tons.