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 XXXIV/12: Updating the information on relevant safety standards

Recalling decision XXVIII/4 on the establishment of regular consultations on safety standards,

Recalling also the continued importance of ensuring the safe market introduction, manufacturing, operation, maintenance, and handling of equipment containing refrigerants that are alternatives to hydrochlorofluorocarbons and hydrofluorocarbons,

Taking note of the importance of being informed on progress in updating relevant standards, such as the recent revision of International Electrotechnical Commission standard 60335-2-40,

Recalling decision XXIX/11, in which the Secretariat was requested to hold regular consultations with the relevant standards bodies referred to in paragraph 7 of decision XXVIII/4, with a view to providing, with regard to standards for flammable low-global-warming-potential refrigerants, a tabular overview of relevant safety standards,

  1. To request the Secretariat to continue providing information on relevant safety standards, as requested in decision XXIX/11, at least prior to each Meeting of the Parties up until the Forty-First Meeting of the Parties, when parties should consider whether to renew that request to the Secretariat;
  2. To request the Secretariat to include further relevant safety standards when notified by a party or a group of parties of the adoption of a standard.