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.

Annex A - Group I: CFCs

Non-Article 5(1) Parties Article 5(1) Parties
Base level: Production in 1986. Base level: Average of production for 1995-1997
January 1, 1992 10 per cent of base level. July 1, 1999 10 per cent of base level.
January 1, 1996 15 per cent of base level until 28 July 2000 (date of entry into force of the Beijing Adjustments). January 1, 2010 15 per cent of base level.
New base level for basic domestic needs Effective July 28, 2000 Annual average production for satisfying basic domestic needs of Article 5(1) Parties for the period 1995 to 1997 inclusive.    
July 28, 2000 100 per cent of new base level for satisfying basic domestic needs until end of 2002.    
January 1, 2003 80 per cent of new base level.    
January 1, 2005 50 per cent of new base level.    
January 1, 2007 15 per cent of new base level.    
January 1, 2010 Zero.