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 XVI/45: Declaration of 2007 as "International Year of the Ozone Layer"

The Sixteenth Meeting of the Parties decided in Dec. XVI/45:

Recalling that the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, which constitutes the primary legal instrument for saving the ozone layer, was signed in the city of Montreal, Canada, on 16 September 1987,

Recognizing that, to ensure the success of the Montreal Protocol, the Parties to the Protocol have demonstrated commitment and decisive action by reducing the consumption of ozone-depleting substances since 1986 by 90 per cent,

Considering that entry into force of the Montreal Protocol has resulted in:

  1. A decline in the level of ozone-depleting substances in the atmosphere;
  2. The expectation that the ozone layer will recover by about 2050 if there is full compliance with the provisions of the Montreal Protocol;
  3. The avoidance of further significant increases in ultraviolet radiation reaching the Earth’s surface;

and, thereby, improved the expectations of human health and reduced environmental risks for life on Earth,

Gratified by the transcendent success of the Montreal Protocol,

Declares 2007 “International Year of the Ozone Layer”.