Reducing Ozone Depletion (DP IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS)) : Revision Note

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