What is the primary regulatory mechanism for managing ozone-depleting substances on a global scale?

The primary regulatory mechanism for managing ozone-depleting substances on a global scale is the Montreal Protocol. This international treaty, adopted in 1987, is specifically designed to phase out the production and consumption of substances that harm the ozone layer, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons. The Montreal Protocol has been ratified by nearly all countries around the world, demonstrating a strong global commitment to protecting the ozone layer and, by extension, the environment and human health.

The treaty has established specific timelines and targets for the reduction of these harmful substances, making it a legally binding agreement that facilitates international cooperation. By creating a framework for countries to work together to eliminate ozone-depleting substances, the Montreal Protocol has been instrumental in contributing to the recovery of the ozone layer.

In contrast, while the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act address air and water quality in the U.S., they do not focus specifically on ozone-depleting substances on a global scale. Similarly, the Kyoto Protocol primarily addresses greenhouse gas emissions and climate change, rather than the specific issue of ozone depletion. Therefore, the Montreal Protocol remains the most relevant and effective regulatory mechanism for managing substances that deplete the ozone layer globally.