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.

Decision XV/51: Institutional strengthening assistance to countries with economies in transition

The Fifteenth Meeting of the Parties decided in Dec. XV/51:

  1. To note with appreciation the assistance that the Global Environment Facility has provided to date to countries with economies in transition;
  2. To note also with appreciation that the Council of the Global Environment Facility has earmarked $60 million to assist countries with economies in transition phase out methyl bromide and HCFCs;
  3. To note that, while such assistance has been successful in furthering ODS phase-out, continued institutional strengthening assistance is necessary to ensure that such progress is sustained and that the Parties continue to comply with their reporting obligations;
  4. To note the work under way in the Council of the Global Environment Facility to develop a major capacity-building initiative across all its focal areas;
  5. To urge those countries with economies in transition that are experiencing difficulty in meeting their obligations under the Protocol to consider working with the implementing agencies to seek assistance for institutional strengthening from the Global Environment Facility;
  6. To request the Global Environment Facility to consider favourably such applications for assistance, in accordance with its criteria for its capacity-building.