The Montreal Protocol, which began in 1987, was designed to eliminate ozone-depleting chemicals. More than 190 countries are members.

Strengthening the ozone layer is a major step in eliminating environmental health hazards caused by excess UV radiation. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) also damage the Earth's climate system. In 2005, the U.S. reduced annual emissions of CFCs and other ozone killers by 1,500 million CO2-equivalent metric tons per year. U.S. actions achieved a cumulative emissions reduction of about 13,000 million CO2-equivalent metric tons from 1987-2005 (not accounting for some offset from the influence of ozone depletion on the climate).

CFCs Were Phased Out In Developed Countries By 1996. That was the first protocol. HCFCs are being used instead, which are less harmful.

Where Are We Now? The world is entering the Protocol's second phase, with the goal of eliminating the HCFCs. Target deadlines are 2030 for developed countries and 2040 for developing countries.

Can We Get There Faster? While the Protocol actions have already strengthened the ozone shield, the United States believes more steps can be taken to reach a total HCFC phaseout by perhaps 10 years sooner than the target dates.

The Big Picture. Since 1987, the U.S. has achieved a 90 percent reduction in the production and consumption of ozone-depleting chemicals and other substances. Worldwide, the Montreal Protocol has cut in half the amount of global warming caused by ozone-destroying chemicals that would have occurred by 2010.