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 X/12: Emissions of ozone-depleting substances from feedstock applications

The Tenth Meeting of the Parties decided in Dec. X/12:

Noting the report of the Technology and Economic Assessment Panel that emissions from the use of carbon tetrachloride as feedstock in the manufacture of CFCs are estimated to be around 30,000 tonnes per year,

Concerned that this level of emissions may pose a threat to the ozone layer,

Aware that technology exists to reduce such emissions,

To request the Technology and Economic Assessment Panel to investigate further and to report to the Parties at their Twelfth Meeting on:

  1. Emissions of carbon tetrachloride from its use as feedstock, including currently available and future possible options individual Parties may consider for the reduction of such emissions;
  2. Emissions of other ozone-depleting substances arising from the use of controlled substances as feedstock;
  3. The impact of CFC production phase-out on the future use of carbon tetrachloride as feedstock and emissions from such use.