A Bright Future for the Montreal Protocol

摘要

In the early 1970s, scientists warned that anthropogenic chemicals containing chlorine (Cl) would lead to destruction of stratospheric ozone (O_3), the protective veil that reduces the amount of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that reach the Earth's surface. A decade later, scientists working with the British Antarctic Survey described a seasonal "hole" (Figure 1) in the ozone layer over Antarctica (Farman, J. C, et al. Nature 1985, 315,207-210), resulting from the presence of Cl (species) in the stratosphere linked to anthropogenic emissions. These findings, and a growing realization that the entire planet was vulnerable to atmospheric pollutants, galvanized the international community and led to the formation of the Montreal Protocol, a global treaty aimed at phasing out 03-damaging compounds. Since its adoption in 1989, the Montreal Protocol has succeeded in eradicating production of many of the world's Cl- and bromine (Br)-containing molecules such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)-organo-halogens that were once used universally in coolants, aerosols, solvents, and pesticides.