UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has stated that the ozone layer, which serves as a screen and shields life on Earth from the Sun’s damaging UV rays, is rapidly rebuilding. He has also emphasized the critical role that the Montreal Protocol has played in the ozone layer’s recovery.
On the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, the UN president declared, “The ozone layer, once an ailing patient, is on the road to recovery.”
“It’s time to move forward now,” Guterres inserted
The historic 1987 Montreal Protocol is an international environmental accord that controls the use and manufacturing of about 100 synthetic compounds, also known as “ozone-depleting substances” (ODS).
“The Montreal Protocol to help protect the ozone layer stands out as a powerful symbol of hope at a time when multilateralism is under severe strain,” the secretary-general stated in his message.
“It serves as a reminder that change is achievable when nations demonstrate political will for the welfare of all,” he stated.
The UN head stated, “The Protocol has also contributed to shielding carbon sinks, protecting humanity’s health, and avoiding economic losses by uniting the world to phase out the consumption and production of different ozone depleting substances.”
“The Kigali Amendment to the Protocol, which focuses on phasing down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent gases that warm the earth, can help advance efforts to mitigate climate change and safeguard people and the environment. And with temperature records continuing to break, that is more important than ever, the UN head stated.
The Kigali Amendment has the potential to prevent global warming by up to 0.5 degrees Celsius by the end of this century if it is fully passed and put into effect. Although four out of every five countries have accepted the amendment, he noted that time is of the essence and that a variety of climate solutions, such as those pertaining to refrigerants and energy efficiency, are also required to prevent a climate catastrophe by the middle of the century.
This World Ozone Day, let’s pledge to reconcile with the environment. Let’s pledge to build on the accomplishments of the Montreal Protocol to demonstrate the potential of optimal international cooperation.
