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 VII/15: Compliance with the Montreal Protocol by Poland

The Seventh Meeting of the Parties decided in Dec. VII/15:

  1. To note that the Implementation Committee took cognizance of the joint statement made by Belarus, Bulgaria, Poland, the Russian Federation and Ukraine at the eleventh meeting of the Open-ended Working Group of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol regarding possible non-fulfilment of their obligations under the Montreal Protocol, as a submission under paragraph 4 of the non-compliance procedure of Article 8 of the Protocol;
  2. To note the consultations of the Implementation Committee with the representatives of Poland regarding possible non-fulfilment of that Party’s obligations under the Montreal Protocol;
  3. To accept the assurance given by the representatives of Poland that their country is in compliance with its obligations under the Montreal Protocol for the year 1995 and is likely to be in compliance with its obligations under the Montreal Protocol in 1996, even though there are still some doubts concerning the availability of substitutes;
  4. To note that, should Poland have doubts about its compliance with its obligations under the Montreal Protocol in the year 1996, it should submit the information to the Secretariat as soon as possible so that the necessary action can be initiated.