EU receives 2017 Ozone Award

EUROPE: The European Union has received the 2017 Ozone Award for political leadership for its role in the adoption of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.

The award was announced during this week’s 29th Meeting of the Parties to the Protocol in Montreal.

“The Montreal Protocol is a fine example of swift and effective action at global level in response to scientific evidence of a serious man-made environmental problem,” said European commissioner for climate action and energy Miguel Arias Cañete. “The EU has been a frontrunner in eliminating the substances that created the hole in the ozone layer, working successfully with industry to bring alternative technologies to the market.”

Ozone-depleting substances have already been phased out in the EU, 10 years ahead of its obligations under the Montreal Protocol. The EU is also well into the process of reducing its consumption of HFCs refrigerants.

The Ozone Awards recognise the achievements of individuals, groups, and organisations that have shown extraordinary commitment and contribution to implementation of the Montreal Protocol in the past 10 years. This year’s winners across the eight categories were chosen by an international jury of eight members after pre-screening by a selection committee.