Guterres underlines importance of Kigali Amendment

USA: United Nations secretary general António Guterres has emphasised the importance of the Montreal Protocol’s Kigali Amendment in the drive to avert a climate crisis.

Speaking prior to today’s International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, Guterres used the example of how global efforts to help protect the ozone layer stood out as a symbol of hope.

“The ozone layer, once an ailing patient, is on the road to recovery,” he said.

“It is a reminder that when countries show political resolve for the common good, change is possible. In uniting the world to phase out the consumption and production of different ozone depleting substances, the Protocol has also contributed to shielding carbon sinks, protecting humanity’s health, and avoiding economic losses.”

He warned that “the clock is ticking” on the Protocol’s Kigali Amendment to phase down HFCs, underlining its importance to advancing climate mitigation efforts, protecting people and planet. 

“And that is needed more than ever as temperature records continue to shatter,” he said.

Recognising that four out of five nations had ratified the Kigali Amendment, he said: “If fully ratified and implemented, the Kigali Amendment could help avoid as much as 0.5ºC of global heating by the end of this century. Yet, a range of climate solutions – including those related to refrigerants and energy efficiency – are also needed to avert a climate crisis by mid-century.”