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 IX/16: Terms of reference of the Executive Committee*

The Ninth Meeting of the Parties decided in Dec. IX/16 to modify the terms of reference of the Executive Committee:

  1. By inserting at the end of paragraph 2 of Annex X to the report of the Fourth Meeting of the Parties, the following paragraph:

"2 bis. The members of the Executive Committee whose selection was endorsed by the Eighth Meeting of the Parties shall remain in office until 31 December 1997. Thereafter, the term of office of the members of the Committee shall be the calendar year commencing on 1 January of the calendar year after the date of their endorsement by the Meeting of the Parties;” and

     b. By substituting the following for paragraph 8:

"The Executive Committee shall hold three meetings a year while retaining the flexibility to take advantage of the opportunity provided by other Montreal Protocol meetings to convene additional meetings where special circumstances make this desirable."

* The terms of reference of the Executive Committee as modified by the present decision are contained in annex V below.

Annex V: Terms of reference of the Executive Committee
Annex X: Terms of reference for the Executive Committee