Global Decline in Ozone-Harming Gases Marks Environmental Milestone

New research confirms significant reduction in HCFCs, highlighting the success of the Montreal Protocol in combating ozone depletion and climate change.

Atmospheric levels of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) peaked in 2021, five years earlier than predicted.
The Montreal Protocol, signed in 1987, has been pivotal in reducing ozone-depleting substances.
HCFCs, which replaced chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), are now being phased out globally by 2040.
The reduction in HCFCs also contributes to mitigating global warming, as they are potent greenhouse gases.
High-precision measurements from global observatories confirm the downward trend in HCFC emissions.