The CFCs Module

In the early seventies chlorofluorocarbons, or CFCs, were identified as substances with a strong potential for the depletion of the ozone layer. In the mid eighties the Antarctic ozone hole was discovered, and scientific evidence was found that CFCs, under specific meteorological circumstances, were responsible for this phenomenon. Therefore, in 1987, the Montreal Protocol came into force, implying the regulation of the main chlorofluorocarbons and halons. The regulating mechanism includes an ultimate freeze of 50% in 2000, whereas developing countries are allowed to increase their production, and not all ozone depleting substances are regulated.