Stratospheric Ozone Protection: An EPA Engineering Perspective

Abstract

Chlorine released into the atmosphere is a major factor in the depletion of the protective stratospheric ozone layer. The Montreal Protocol, as amended in 1990, and the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, address the limits and reduction schedules to be placed on chlorine- and bromine-containing chemicals. The status of technical solutions to the problem of chlorofluorocarbons, halons, methyl chloroform, and carbon tetrachloride in the major use areas of refrigeration, foam, aerosols, fire protection, and solvents is discussed here. The discussion includes the cooperative efforts involving academia, industry, U.S. governmental organizations, and other nations who are contributing solutions to these problems.