Reducing Ozone Depletion
Reducing the Manufacture and Release of Ozone Depleting Substances
- Recycling refrigerants is an effective method to minimise the release of ozone-depleting substances during the disposal and handling of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment
- This involves the proper collection, purification, and reuse of refrigerants from old or discarded refrigeration and air conditioning systems and minimises the need for new production
- Fridges with ODS refrigeration can be replaced with ‘green freeze’ technology that uses propane and/or butane
- Developing alternatives to gas-blown plastics, which use ozone-depleting substances as foaming agents, helps in reducing their production and usage
- Finding alternatives to halogenated pesticides, which contain ozone-depleting substances, reduces their release into the environment during agricultural practices
- By promoting the use of alternative pesticides that are effective and environmentally friendly, the reliance on ozone-depleting substances can be eliminated
- For example, organic methods of pest control can be used instead of methyl bromide
- Developing non-propellant alternatives for aerosols reduces the reliance on ozone-depleting substances for product dispensing mechanisms
- By exploring innovative technologies and utilising non-harmful propellants, the release of ozone-depleting substances can be eliminated or minimised
- For example, pump-action sprays can be used instead of propellant aerosols or alternatives to aerosols can be used - for example, soap bars rather than shaving foam
The Role of UNEP
- The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has played a critical role in the protection of the stratospheric ozone layer through its efforts in providing information and creating international agreements
- UNEP has been instrumental in raising awareness about the depletion of the ozone layer, its causes, and the associated environmental and health impacts
- Through research, monitoring, and dissemination of information, UNEP has helped educate governments, industries, and the public about the importance of ozone layer protection
- UNEP has been actively involved in the creation and evaluation of international agreements aimed at reducing the use of ozone-depleting substances
The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, initiated in 1987, played a crucial role in reducing the production, use and emissions of ozone-depleting substances (note that natural sources of halogen gases, which deplete stratospheric ozone, include biological activity in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems)
- The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, initiated in 1987 under the guidance of UNEP, is a landmark international agreement
- It has been updated and strengthened through subsequent amendments, reflecting the evolving scientific understanding and technological advancements
- 24 countries initially signed the initial Protocol and the total now stands at 197 countries
- Largely as a result of this, emissions of ODSs have rapidly fallen from around 1.5 million tonnes in 1987 to around 400 000 tonnes in 2010
- UNEP hopes to end production of all HCFCs by 2040
- The illegal market for ozone-depleting substances poses a significant challenge to the effectiveness of ozone protection efforts
- UNEP recognises the need for consistent monitoring and enforcement to tackle this issue
- By collaborating with national authorities, customs agencies, and other relevant stakeholders, UNEP works towards curbing the illegal trade of ozone-depleting substances and ensuring compliance with international regulations
- National governments play a crucial role in implementing the agreements made under the direction of UNEP
- In response to the Montreal Protocol, governments have enacted national laws and regulations to decrease the consumption and production of halogenated organic gases, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
- These measures help enforce the reduction targets and promote the transition to ozone-friendly alternatives
- The collective efforts of UNEP, governments, industries, and other stakeholders are vital in achieving the goals of ozone layer protection, mitigating the illegal trade of ozone-depleting substances, and fostering global cooperation for a sustainable future
