The Montreal Protocol: What This Law Means To The Management of Refrigerant Gases
Daniel J. Stouffer
February 26, 2009
The Montreal Protocol calls for a phase out of the making and use of chemicals and gases that deplete the ozone layer. The original treaty set 2000 for the completion of the phase out. Substances identified are chlorofluorocarbons, halons, carbon tetrachloride and methyl chloroform. Hydrochlorofluorocarbons are also includes because they contribute to global warming. Hydrochlorofluorocarbons can be found in refrigerants, solvents, fire extinguishers and the manufacture of plastic foam.
Banning substances that harm the environment was first implemented internationally through the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer agreement. That treaty ended in 1985 and Montreal Protocol 1987 replaced it. However, the Montreal Protocol was amended in 1990 and then again in 1992.
The changes included an extension of the 2000 phase out deadline. The new amendments allowed developed countries to continue the production of chlorofluorocarbons up to 15% of their 1986 baseline. This new directive was necessary because developing countries needed chlorofluorocarbons for vital items, including medical devices. However, the new directives required developing countries to phase out chlorofluorocarbons and carbon tetrachloride by 2010 and methyl chloroform by 2015.
Currently, the Montreal Protocol requires developed countries to phase out hydrochlorofluorocarbons based on this established schedule: 35% reduction in 2004; 65% reduction by 2010; 90% decrease by 2015; 99.5% reduction by 2020; and 100% elimination by 2030. However, 0.5% will remain in use temporarily to service current refrigeration and air conditioning equipment. For developing countries, a complete phase out of hydrochlorofluorocarbons is required by 2040.
When setting guidelines to eliminate ozone depleting substances, the Montreal Protocol analyzed scientific, environmental, technical and economic data. Currently, a variety of information is being examined to find improved alternatives to replace ozone depleting substances for refrigeration, agriculture, energy production and laboratory measurements.
One major part of the Montreal Protocol is its monitoring and reporting requirements. This means facilities have to take steps and document them to show how they are monitoring harmful substances. There are a few companies that focus on refrigerant management programs. Clean-Tech development companies often specialize in refrigerant management programs. They can assist businesses and industries in complying with the environmental regulations and laws related to ozone destruction. Refrigerant tracking solutions, when deployed as a web-based solution, are a helpful tool in ensuring that the necessary forms are submitted to meet the EPA reporting requirements.
Thanks to the efforts of facilities to date, ozone depleting substances are already on the decline. As such, the Montreal Protocol is ahead of schedule in meeting its goals. However, companies and industries that fail to comply with the protocols under the agreement will remain closely watched.
Currently, the Montreal Protocol has been ratified by 194 of the 196 United Nations member states. The ozone layer is expected to recover by 2050 if the Montreal Protocol is followed fully. Because of the progress so far, the protocol is viewed as the most successful international agreement on controlling the environmental damages ever conceived. It also provides a good road map for international consensus related to addressing worldwide carbon emissions.
Verisae specializes in refrigerant tracking and carbon emissions reporting. We can assist organizations across multiple locations and down to the asset level comply with The Montreal Protocol regulations. Visit www.Refrigerant-Tracker.com to research our refrigerant management solutions.
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