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: Twenty-Sixth Meeting of the Parties (Paris, 17–21 November 2014)

Source(s)
Annex to decision XXVI/6

Table A

Agreed critical-use categories

(Metric tonnes)

2016

 

Australia

Strawberry runners 29.760

Canada

Strawberry runners (Prince Edward Island) 5.261

United States of America

Strawberry field 231.54, cured pork 3.24

2015

 

Argentina

Strawberry fruit 64.3, green pepper/tomato 70

China

Ginger protected 24.0, ginger open field 90.0

Mexico

Strawberry nursery 43.539, raspberry nursery 41.418

Table B

Permitted levels of production and consumptiona

(Metric tonnes)

2016

 

Australia

   29.760

Canada

     5.261

United States of America

234.78

2015

 

Argentina

134.3

China

114.0

Mexico

  84.957 

a Minus available stocks.