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.

Third Extraordinary Meeting of the Parties

Decision Ex.III/1: Report by the Technology and Economic Assessment Panel on the climate benefits and costs of reducing hydrofluorocarbons under the Dubai pathway
Annex I: Report of the co-chairs of the contact group on the feasibility and ways of managing HFCs to the Third Extraordinary Meeting of the Parties
Annex II: Solutions to challenges identified under the Dubai pathway[2]
Appendix I: Vienna solutions for challenges on funding issues and flexibility of implementation
Appendix II: Solutions on challenges regarding funding issues and flexibility in implementation
Appendix III: High-ambient temperature exemption
Annex III: Text for consideration by the parties for inclusion in decisions under the Dubai pathway on hydrofluorocarbons under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer
Appendix: Indicative list of subjects on which instructions and requests on the development of guidelines have been directed to the Executive Committee of the Multilateral Fund
Annex IV: Text for consideration by the Parties for inclusion in decisions related to the phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer
Annex V: Text for consideration by the Parties for inclusion in decisions under the Dubai pathway on hydrofluorocarbons under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer
Annex VI: Party proposals regarding baselines, freeze dates and first reduction steps