On the occasion of the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer (World Ozone Day), observed on 16 September, global attention was drawn to the historic journey of the Montreal Protocol.
During the 1970s and 1980s, scientists confirmed that certain synthetic chemicals, primarily chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) used in refrigeration and aerosols, were reaching the stratosphere, at an altitude of 12–50 kilometres above the Earth’s surface, and destroying ozone molecules. This led to the formation of a massive “ozone hole” over Antarctica.
Adopted in 1987, the Montreal Protocol is a legally binding multilateral environmental agreement aimed at protecting the ozone layer. It regulates the production and consumption of nearly 100 man-made chemicals known as ozone-depleting substances (ODS), including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs).
India’s participation: India became a party to the Montreal Protocol in June 1992.
argeted phase-out: The treaty classifies chemicals into different groups and establishes separate, stringent timelines for developed and developing countries to gradually eliminate their use.
Success: Often regarded as one of the world’s most successful environmental treaties, the Montreal Protocol has facilitated the global phase-out of approximately 99% of ozone-depleting substances (ODS).
