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 XX/21: Membership of the Implementation Committee

  1. To note with appreciation the work done by the Implementation Committee under the Non‑compliance Procedure for the Montreal Protocol in 2008;
  2. To confirm the positions of Jordan, Mauritius, Mexico, New Zealand and the Russian Federation as members of the Committee for one further year and to select Armenia, Germany, Nicaragua, Niger and Sri Lanka as members of the Committee for a two‑year period commencing 1 January 2009;
  3. To note the selection of Ms. Robyn Washbourne (New Zealand) to serve as President and of Mr. Ghazi Faleh Odat (Jordan) to serve as Vice-President and Rapporteur of the Committee for one year commencing 1 January 2009;