The Montreal Protocol
In 1987, governments adopted the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (Montreal Protocol). This landmark agreement identified the major ozone-depleting substances (ODS), established a timetable for the reduction and eventual elimination of their production and consumption worldwide, and defined the control measures to ensure that the timetable is met. The Protocol entered into force on January 1, 1989.
Adjustments and Amendments
Adjustments to the Protocol tighten the existing phase-out schedules of already controlled substances and update Ozone-Depleting Potential (ODP). values of controlled substances. Amendments to the Protocol introduce new control measures and new ODS.
To date, the Parties to the Protocol have agreed to four amendments and five adjustments to ensure that the Protocol continues to reflect improved scientific and technical understanding. The most recent amendment, the Beijing Amendment, was approved by nations that are Parties to the Protocol in 1999.
Countries Participating in the Montreal Protocol
As of 2007, when the Montreal Protocol celebrated its 20th anniversary, there were only five countries that had not ratified the treaty. Countries that have not yet ratified are listed here.
Countries participating in the Montreal Protocol are classified as either Article 5 (developing) or Article 2 (developed) countries with separate deadlines for ODS phase-out recognizing the need to allow more time for Article 5 countries to phase-out consumption of ODS.
A complete list of each country's status can be found at the UNEP Ozone Secretariat website http://ozone.unep.org/Ratification_status/.
