What is the main goal of the Montreal Protocol?

The main goal of the Montreal Protocol is to phase out substances that deplete the ozone layer. This international treaty, adopted in 1987, was a significant milestone in environmental protection, as it aimed to reduce and ultimately eliminate the production and consumption of various chemicals known to harm the ozone layer, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

The rationale behind this objective is grounded in the understanding that the ozone layer is crucial for protecting life on Earth by filtering out harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun. By reducing the emissions of ozone-depleting substances, the treaty strives to prevent further depletion of the ozone layer, thereby protecting human health as well as ecosystems.

In contrast, enhancing international trade, increasing greenhouse gas emissions, and regulating carbon dioxide levels pertain to different environmental and economic issues. While some may connect these topics to overall environmental strategies, they do not pertain directly to the primary aim of the Montreal Protocol, which is specifically focused on protecting the ozone layer through the phase-out of harmful chemicals.