Montreal Protocol
The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer 1987 sets targets for reducing the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances. It originally required parties to reduce chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) use to 50 percent below 1986 levels by 1998, and to freeze halon consumption at 1986 levels from 1992.
The provisions of the Protocol have since been tightened through a
series of Amendments – CFCs and halons were phased out completely
by the early to mid-1990s, and phase-out schedules were agreed for other
substances as the impact of those substances on ozone layer depletion
became better understood. New Zealand’s obligations under the
Montreal Protocol are implemented through the Ozone
Layer Protection Act 1996 and the Ozone Layer Protection Regulations
1996.
The Act and its Regulations are enforced by the Ministry for Economic
Development, but ozone layer protection policy is managed by the Ministry
for the Environment in conjunction with other relevant government departments.
New Zealand has always taken an active role in international discussions
about the Protocol, and it has aimed to meet or exceed its domestic
commitments under the Protocol. Overseas development assistance to help
developing countries comply with phase-out schedules under the Montreal
Protocol is an important focus for further work under the Protocol.
Last updated: 17 September 2007
