Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (and Vienna Convention)

What it is and does

This is the global treaty that phases out ozone-depleting gases such as CFCs and HCFCs (for example R-22 and R-141b). All six GCC states are parties and count as developing (Article 5) countries. For HCFCs, imports were frozen in 2013 at the 2009–2010 average and are cut step by step until a full phase-out in 2030. A small servicing allowance is permitted from 2030 to 2040.

Who it affects

Governments, refrigerant importers and distributors; indirectly everyone who services R-22 equipment

Key points

• HCFC (R-22, R-141b) steps for GCC states: freeze 2013, minus 10% by 2015, 35% by 2020, 67.5% by 2025, 100% by 2030
• From 2030 to 2040 only a servicing tail averaging 2.5% of the baseline is allowed
• R-22 supply is shrinking and quotas are tight, so expect higher prices and plan retrofits or replacements
• Recovered and reclaimed R-22 becomes the main source for keeping old units running
• Accession dates: UAE 22 Dec 1989, Bahrain 27 Apr 1990, Kuwait 23 Nov 1992, Saudi Arabia 1 Mar 1993, Qatar 22 Jan 1996, Oman 30 Jun 1999

Official text

ozone.unep.org ↗ · Source: UNEP Ozone Secretariat

This is a plain-English summary for information, not legal advice. Read the official text and check with the authority before acting. Spotted a change or a mistake? Write to contact@acgaswatch.me.