The 197 ratifiers of the Montreal protocol on HFC emissions have signed a global agreement on the reduction of hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) emissions. Under the agreement, more than 100 developed countries (including China and the United States) will progressively reduce their HFC consumption, by 10% by 2019 and by 85% by 2036. Two groups of developing countries will freeze their HFC consumption by either 2024 or 2028; the Gulf countries, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan and India will meet the 2028 target.
The Montreal protocol on substances that deplete the ozone layer was agreed in August 1987, signed by 197 countries and become effective in January 1989. It aimed at phasing out chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). HFCs replaced CFCs and HCFCs when banned. They contribute to only 2% of world GHG emissions but this share has grew strongly in the past recent years.