Ozone Layer - Climate Action

Welcome to the European Commission’s page on protecting the ozone layer. This is your gateway to understanding the ozone layer’s vital role in sustaining life and why we must prevent further damage. Explore how EU policies and the Montreal Protocol are curbing the use of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) in Europe and worldwide.

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About ozone-depleting substances

Discover what the ozone layer is and how substances like CFCs an HCFCs can deplete it and explore EU action against these harmful substances

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Achievements

Learn about significant milestones, including the EU's progress in cutting emissions and supporting ozone layer recovery

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ODS Legislation

Guidance on Regulation (EU) 2024/590, the EU’s latest rules on ozone-depleting substances (ODS)

Business portal

Licensing and reporting Ozone-Depleting Substances in the EU

Key figures & facts

🌍 100 chemicals phased out

Since 1987, the Montreal Protocol has phased out nearly 100 ozone-depleting substances globally, including CFCs, HCFCs, and halons

🇪🇺 EU emissions cut by 98%

From 1989 until today, the EU has reduced ozone-depleting substance emissions by 98%, significantly exceeding international obligations

🌤️ Ozone layer recovery by 2066

The ozone layer is projected to return to pre-1980 conditions—before the ozone hole—by approximately 2066 in the Antarctic, and 2045 in the Arctic

🌡️ Up to 1.5°C warming avoided

Phasing out ozone-depleting substances globally could prevent up to 1.5°C of warming by the mid-21st century

🌿 180 million t. of CO₂-eq. emissions prevented

The new EU Regulation (2024/590) will help prevent 180 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent emissions

In the spotlight

The new Regulation (EU) 2024/590 on ozone-depleting substances (ODS) entered into force in March 2024, replacing the previous Regulation (EC) No 1005/2009. It introduces stricter yet simplified measures aimed at eliminating the remaining use of ODS within the EU. In line with the European Green Deal, the new Regulation supports the EU’s goal to combat climate change while ensuring compliance with international obligations under the Montreal Protocol.

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