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/9: Flexibility in the use of alternatives for the phasing out of methyl bromide

The Sixteenth Meeting of the Parties decided in Dec. XVI/9:

Considering the willingness of the Parties to comply with the requirements under the Montreal Protocol and its phase-out schedules,

Considering that the development of alternatives to methyl bromide has come up against unforeseen difficulties, for certain crops such as melons, flowers and strawberries, owing to specific local and agricultural conditions,

Taking into account that these agricultural technologies need to be adapted and new expertise must be put in place for such specific conditions,

Aware that the Parties operating under paragraph 1 of Article 5, facing this situation, seek continued technical support and the flexibility to adapt the necessary technical assistance in order to help build these capacities and find a more satisfactory solution to the use of alternatives,

To request the appropriate bodies to evaluate the progress already made and the necessary adjustments to reach the stated goals.