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 XXXIII/1: Updated interim budget for the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol for the triennium 2021–2023

Taking into account the current exceptional circumstances related to the coronavirus disease (COVID‑19) pandemic, and without setting a precedent,

Recognizing the resources remaining from the 2018–2020 replenishment decided on in decision XXIX/1,

Appreciating the fact that that many parties have made contributions to the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer in 2021 pending a final decision on replenishment for the triennium 2021–2023,

Recalling decision XXXII/1, by which parties adopted an interim budget of $268 million for the Multilateral Fund for the triennium 2021–2023,

Noting that parties will take a decision on the replenishment of the Multilateral Fund to adopt a final budget for the triennium 2021–2023, including regular contributions,

To adopt an updated interim budget for the Multilateral Fund for the triennium 2021–2023 of $400 million until such time as the parties adopt a final decision on replenishment, including a revised budget for the triennium 2021–2023, on the understanding that the updated interim budget will be provided from contributions due to the Multilateral Fund and other sources for the triennium 2018–2020, and from contributions already made by parties in 2021.