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 XXII/9: Hydrochlorofluorocarbons preblended in polyols

Taking into account the importance of the phase-out of hydrochlorofluorocarbons in the polyurethane foams sector for compliance with the adjusted phase-out schedule for hydrochlorofluorocarbons in accordance with decision XIX/6,

Acknowledging with appreciation the efforts by India to bring the issue of hydrochlorofluorocarbons in preblended polyols to the attention of the parties,

Recognizing the fruitful discussions by the parties on the issue at the thirtieth meeting of the Open-ended Working Group,

  1. To note with appreciation the cooperative manner in which the members of the Executive Committee of the Multilateral Fund addressed this issue at the Committee's sixty-first meeting through decision 61/47, by agreeing on a framework on eligible incremental costs for parties operating under paragraph 1 of Article 5 of the Montreal Protocol in their transition from the use of hydrochlorofluorocarbons in preblended polyols;
  2. To affirm that the issue of the use of hydrochlorofluorocarbons in preblended polyols has been addressed to the satisfaction of the parties;