The success story of how global cooperation saved the ozone layer
Written by Yuv Sungkur
Climate change will never be resolved without global, inclusive cooperation. While it may seem like an impossible task, humanity has not only tried, but succeded when handling the depletion of our ozone layer.
What is the ozone layer?
The ozone layer - or also called the ozone shield - is a region of Earth's stratosphere that absorbs most of the Sun's ultraviolet radiation. It contains a high concentration of ozone (O3). O3 plays a very different role in the stratosphere as it absorbs the sun’s heavy ultraviolet radiation. In fact, the ozone layer absorbs 97 to 99% of the sun’s UV radiation. In other words, the ozone layer is therefore crucial for human life and the Earth’s biodiversity, as it ensures that life is not exposed to harmful radiation.
The issue: the creation of ozone-depleting substances (ODS)
As human kind developed, society created various chemicals harmful for our environment (rings a bell?). In this case, specific human-created substances caused the depletion of the ozone layer. These substances are called ozone-depleting substances - or ODS. The most commonly known substance is chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), but it also includes halon, hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), methyl chloroform (CH3CCl3), etc. Overall, there are nearly 100 man-made chemicals referred to as ODS. These substances can often be found in refrigerators, air conditioners, fire extinguishers, and aerosol propellants.
Until the 1980s, emissions of ozone-depleting gas were dangerously increasing. Since then, however, rapid progress has been achieved: global emissions of ozone-depleting substances have declined by more than 99% since 1986, and initial signs of recovery can be detected - how come this happened?
The solution: global cooperation under the Montreal Protocol of 1987
In 1987, countries around the globe gathered in Montreal to tackle the issue of this rapidly depleting ozone layer. After weeks of negotiation, representatives agreed upon a text, and the Montreal Protocol was created. The protocol was the first and only agreement that achieved universal ratification. The aim of the protocol is simple.
It is designed to stop the production and import of ozone-depleting substances.
It has to reduce the concentration of ODS in the atmosphere to help protect the earth's ozone layer.
It sets binding progressive phase-out obligations for developed and developing countries for all the major ODS like CFCs, halon, and HCFCs. Overall, it targets a total of 96 chemicals across more than 240 industrial sectors.
It is also worth noting that this protocol was strengthened throughout the years as well - six times to be exact. The latest one to date is Kigali in 2016.
Lessons for the Future: global cooperation is not an utopia
One of the most inspiring aspects of the ozone layer's protection was the unprecedented level of international cooperation. The Montreal Protocol marked a turning point in global environmental efforts, as nearly every country in the world signed on to the agreement. This unity was a testament to the understanding that environmental challenges are not confined by national borders and necessitate collective action.
The triumphant tale of the ozone layer's preservation holds valuable lessons for the challenges that lie ahead. First and foremost, it demonstrates the power of international cooperation in solving complex global issues. The success of the Montreal Protocol showcases that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, collective action can lead to meaningful change.
Furthermore, the story underscores the importance of proactive policy-making and the role of science in guiding decision-making. By basing policies on robust scientific evidence, governments and industries can make informed choices that benefit both the environment and society.
