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 I/12G: Clarification of terms and definitions: Article 2, paragraph 6

The First Meeting of the Parties decided in Dec. I/12G to agree to the following clarification of Article 2, paragraph 6 of the Protocol:

  1. paragraphs 1 to 4 of Article 2 of the Protocol freeze and then reduce annual production and therefore do not allow any increase of such production under Article 2, paragraph 6;
  2. since the object and purpose of the Protocol is to significantly reduce the production and use of CFCs and halons, neither Article 2, paragraph 6 nor any other provision allows an increase in production to be exported to non-Parties so that the reduction in global consumption is not obtained in accordance with the object of the Protocol;
  3. only countries that notify the Secretariat that the facilities were under construction or contracted prior to 16 September 1987, provided for in national legislation prior to 1 January 1987 and completed by 31 December 1990 were allowed to operate under Article 2, paragraph 6.