Syllabus Edition
First teaching 2015
Last exams 2025
Reducing Ozone Depletion
Written by: Alistair Marjot
Reviewed by: Bridgette Barrett
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
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