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 XXXI/7: Continued provision of information on energy-efficient and low­-global-warming-potential technologies

Recalling decisions XXVIII/2, XXVIII/3, XXIX/10 and XXX/5 relating to energy efficiency and the phase‑down of hydrofluorocarbons,

Taking note of the reports of the Technology and Economic Assessment Panel in response to decisions XXVIII/3, XXIX/10 and XXX/5, inter alia, covering issues related to energy efficiency while phasing down hydrofluorocarbons and the cost and availability of low-global-warming-potential technologies and equipment that maintain or enhance energy efficiency,

To request the Technology and Economic Assessment Panel to prepare a report for consideration by the Thirty-Second Meeting of the Parties addressing any new developments with respect to best practices, availability, accessibility and cost of energy-efficient technologies in the refrigeration, air-conditioning and heat-pump sectors as regards the implementation of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.