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 XXVI/17: Membership changes in the Technology and Economic Assessment Panel

  1. To thank Mr. Lambert J. M. Kuijpers (Netherlands) for his long and outstanding service as Co-Chair of the Technology and Economic Assessment Panel;
  2. To endorse the reappointment of Mr. Kuijpers as a Co-Chair of the Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps Technology Options Committee for a transitional term of one year and to endorse the appointment of Mr. Kuijpers as a Senior Expert of the Technology and Economic Assessment Panel for a subsequent period of one year in accordance with paragraph 2.3 of the terms of reference of the Panel;
  3. To endorse the appointment of Mr. Ashley Woodcock (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland) as Co-Chair of the Technology and Economic Assessment Panel for a term of four years in accordance with paragraph 2.3 of the terms of reference of the Panel;
  4. To endorse the re-appointment of Ms. Marta Pizano (Colombia) as Co-Chair of the Technology and Economic Assessment Panel for a term of four years in accordance with paragraph 2.3 of the terms of reference of the Panel;
  5. To endorse the appointment of Mr. Fabio Polonara (Italy) to the Technology and Economic Assessment Panel and as a new Co-Chair of the Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps Technical Options Committee for a term of four years in accordance with paragraph 2.3 of the terms of reference of the Panel;