EPA Collaborations with Stakeholders to Protect the Ozone Layer
As a Party to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, the United States joined with other nations to phase out the production and use of ozone-depleting substances (ODSA compound that contributes to stratospheric ozone depletion. ODS include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), halons, methyl bromide, carbon tetrachloride, hydrobromofluorocarbons, chlorobromomethane, and methyl chloroform. ODS are generally very stable in the troposphere and only degrade under intense ultraviolet light in the stratosphere. When they break down, they release chlorine or bromine atoms, which then deplete ozone. A detailed list (http://www.epa.gov/ozone/science/ods/index.html) of class I and class II substances with their ODPs, GWPs, and CAS numbers are available.) that harm the ozone layer. EPA continues to work with stakeholders to coordinate global and national efforts to protect the ozone layer:
- EPA participates in international forums to help refine the Montreal Protocol and related treaties based on ongoing scientific assessments of ozone depletion. These assessments are coordinated by the United Nations Environment Programme and the World Meteorological Organization, with cooperation from EPA and other international agencies.
- EPA works with other U.S. government agencies, including the Department of Energy, Department of State, Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security (including Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement), Department of Defense, and others, to coordinate efforts to address ozone layer depletion in the United States. This includes coordination on federal agency procurement of alternatives to high-global warming potential hydrofluorocarbons.