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 XXI/19: Compliance with the Montreal Protocol by the Federated States of Micronesia

  1. That the Federated States of Micronesia reported annual consumption of the controlled substances in Annex A, group I (chlorofluorocarbons), of 0.5 ODP‑tonnes for 2007, which exceeds the Party’s maximum allowable consumption of 0.2 ODP‑tonnes for those controlled substances for that year, and that the Party is therefore in non‑compliance with the control measures for those substances under the Protocol for that year;
  2. To note, however, that in response to the request for an explanation for its excess consumption, the Federated States of Micronesia has reported that it had begun to enforce its licensing system, which took effect in November 2007;
  3. To note further the Federated States of Micronesia’s return to compliance in 2008 and its commitment to ban imports of chlorofluorocarbons from 2009 onward;
  4. To monitor closely the progress of the Party with regard to its implementation of its obligations under the Protocol;