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/20: Transfer of essential-use authorizations for CFCs for MDIs

The Ninth Meeting of the Parties decided in Dec. IX/20:

  1. That all transfers of essential-use authorizations for CFCs for MDIs be reviewed on a case-by-case basis at Meetings of the Parties for approval;
  2. Notwithstanding paragraph 1 of the present decision, to allow the Secretariat, in consultation with the Technology and Economic Assessment Panel, to authorize a Party, in an emergency situation, to transfer some or all of its authorized levels of CFCs for essential uses in MDIs to another Party, provided that:
    1. The transfer applies only up to the maximum level that has previously been authorized for the calendar year in which the next Meeting of the Parties is to be held;
    2. Both Parties involved agree to the transfer;
    3. The aggregate annual level of authorizations for all Parties for essential uses of MDIs does not increase as a result of the transfer;
    4. The transfer or receipt is reported by each Party involved on the essential-use quantity-accounting format approved by the Eighth Meeting of the Parties by paragraph 9 of decision VIII/9.