Highlights from the 46th Montreal Protocol OEWG: Addressing Ozone Depletion and Climate Change Challenges

Based on the assessment panel reports, the main discussions focused on several critical issues pertaining to ozone depletion and climate change. One key topic was considering whether the Montreal Protocol should expand its mandate to cover the impact of Very Short-Lived Substances (VSLSs) on the ozone layer. Countries such as Canada, the US, Australia, as well as the EU are supporting the inclusion of VSLSs due to their potential impact on the ozone layer, recognising the need for evidence-based information. However, countries such as China and Russia are opposed, citing insufficient evidence and the predominant use of VSLSs as feedstock with no atmospheric emissions​.  

 

The country delegates reviewed the Technology and Economic Assessment Panel (TEAP) report on LRM, focusing on the cost and feasibility of reclamation technologies. High ambient temperature and low-volume consuming countries highlighted the prohibitive costs associated with these technologies. The need for replenishing the Multilateral Fund for 2024-2026 was a significant item of the agenda. The estimated requirement of approximately USD 1 billion is roughly double that of the previous triennia. This fund is crucial for supporting developing countries in meeting their obligations under the Protocol. An enhanced global and regional monitoring of Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) was exhaustively debated. Delegates have expressed concerns about the costs of the process and highlighted the need to access sustainable funding. The potential of certain sources of funding was discussed. Moreover, the EU-funded Pilot project Steering Committee indicated that a new site in Brazil would have potential benefits and would fill a significant observational gap in South America. A contact group has been set up to take this initiative forward. Discussions have also focused on the USD 100 million Multilateral Fund to finance projects promoting energy efficiency alongside HFC phase-down. This is particularly relevant for high ambient temperature countries,​ to help them transition to clean and energy-efficient refrigeration and air conditioning technologies. Finally, the OEWG also addressed the EU proposal submitted at the last Meeting of Parties (MOP35) on transitioning to low-GWP propellants in metered-dose inhalers (MDIs). While some countries showed interest, concerns were expressed about the timing and readiness of such a transition. ​ The discussions held at OEWG 46 underscore the ongoing efforts to balance environmental protection with practical and economic considerations, demonstrating the complexity and collaborative nature of international environmental agreements.  

 

In addition to the plenary session held at OEWG, various enriching side events were arranged. The IIR’s incoming General Director, Yosr Allouche, made significant contributions to two key events organised by AREA and Centro Studi Galileo: 

‘Next Practices’ as Against ‘Best Practices’: Training Servicing and Maintenance Sector, where Yosr Allouche shared valuable insights on “Building National Capacity in Refrigeration: A Country Specific Approach” and “ Case Studies in Energy Efficient Cooling Systems” where she addressed the topic of “Refrigeration and Sustainability: Pathways to Emissions Mitigation”. 

For more detailed daily summaries and additional insights on OEWG meetings, readers are invited to consult IISD’s Earth Negotiations Bulletin.