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Chlorofluorocarbons were first created in 1928 as non-toxic, non-flammable refrigerants, and were first produced commercially in the 1930's by DuPont. The first Chlorofluorocarbon was CFC-12, a single carbon with two chlorines and two Fluorines attached to it.
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Gaseous CFCs can deplete the ozone layer when they slowly rise into the stratosphere, are broken down by strong ultraviolet radiation, release chlorine atoms, and then react with ozone molecules.
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In 1977, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
sets up a co-ordinating committee to study the ozone layer. -
In 1978, the United States of America, Canada,
Sweden and Norway ban the use of CFCs in aerosols. -
In 1981, UNEP starts inter-governmental negotiations
to protect the ozone layer. -
After 1982, in the absence of other moves,
the consumption of CFCs increases again. Industry demands
proof of ozone depletion due to CFCs. -
The British Antarctic Team discovers severe thinning in the ozone
layer over Antarctica - the ozone hole. -
Governments agree to study, exchange information and
protect the ozone layer - through the Vienna Convention for the
Protection of the Ozone Layer (1985). Scientists continue to find
proof of ozone depletion. -
In 1987, 46 governments agree to a fifty per cent cut in the
production and consumption of CFCs by the year 2000; a freeze
in production and consumption of halons by 1992; further
controls linked to assessments by experts. -
Many developing countries ask for alternative technologies
and financial assistance to implement the Montreal Protocol. -
In 1988, the UNEP - WMO report on ozone
trends links CFCs to ozone depletion. -
In 1989, the UNEP Assessment Panel of experts reports
THE NEED for tougher controls. -
Parties agree to completely phase out CFCs by the year 2000,
and to establish a Multilateral Fund to assist developing countries. US$ 240 million was allocated for 1991 - 1993. -
UNEP Assessment Panels recommend that more substances
(HCFCs, methyl bromide) are controlled and that the phase out
of CFCs is advanced. -
In 1992, it was decided that the developed countries phase out
HCFCs by 2030, freeze methyl bromide by 1995 and that the
phase out of CFCs be brought forward to 1996. -
In 1993, the Meeting of the Parties, held in Bangkok, agrees to a
replenishment of the Multilateral Fund - US$455 million for 1994 - 1996.” -
Halons are phased out by industrialized countries. UNEP Assessment Panels recommend tougher controls on methyl bromide.
