Authors: Ena Markotić, Maja Maretić Tiro, Melina Džajić – Valjevac
Every year on 16 September, the world celebrates the International Day for the Preservation of the
Ozone Layer—better known as World Ozone Day. In 2025, this occasion holds special significance: it
marks 40 years since the signing of the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer (1985).
This year’s theme, “From Science to Global Action,” chosen by the Ozone Secretariat of the United
Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), underscores the power of science to identify threats and
mobilize collective action.
Why the Ozone Layer Matters
The ozone layer, located in the stratosphere, plays a vital role in shielding life on Earth from harmful
ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Without it, the risks of skin cancer, cataracts, and immune system damage
would rise dramatically. Ecosystems, crops, and wildlife would also face severe consequences.
From Scientific Alarm to Global Response
In the 1970s, scientists began sounding the alarm: chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), commonly
found in spray cans and refrigerators, were silently eroding the ozone layer. For years, the threat felt
distant—until the mid-1980s, when dramatic satellite images revealed a massive “hole” over Antarctica.
That visual wake-up call galvanized the world.
In 1985, nations adopted the Vienna Convention. Just two years later, on 16 September 1987, they
returned to the table to sign the Montreal Protocol, committing to phase out ozone-depleting
substances. Since then, the Protocol has been strengthened through five amendments, including the
landmark Kigali Amendment. Today, it stands as the most successful international environmental treaty
ever, ratified by every UN member state and responsible for eliminating over 99% of ozone-depleting
substances.
Tangible Impact
According to UN estimates, the Montreal Protocol has prevented millions of cases of skin cancer and
cataracts, while safeguarding ecosystems and global agriculture. Its climate benefits are equally
profound: many ozone-depleting substances are potent greenhouse gases, and their phase-out has
averted emissions equivalent to hundreds of billions of tons of CO₂.
The Role of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina has been part of this global success story from the start. As a signatory to both
the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol, the country committed early to phasing out harmful
substances and adopting safer technologies.
Through its HCFC Phase-out Management Plan, Bosnia and Herzegovina is on track to eliminate hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) by 1 January 2026, well ahead of the 2040 deadline. This ambitious goal reflects the tireless work of the Ozone Unit of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which leads efforts in planning, implementation, and monitoring.
The country has also taken bold steps on climate action. In May 2021, it ratified the Kigali Amendment, becoming the 121st country to do so. Under its Kigali HFC Implementation Plan, Bosnia and Herzegovina
aims to reduce HFC (hydrofluorocarbons) consumption by 80% by 2045.
These achievements show that even small nations can lead by example—aligning with global standards
and contributing meaningfully to environmental sustainability.
Enova’s Contribution
Enova played a key role in the development of a RHVAC database management system through its work
on the UNDP-funded project Database Management System for Refrigeration Equipment and RHVAC
Devices (2020–2021). This initiative improved planning and compliance with Montreal Protocol
obligations while supporting broader climate goals.
Lessons for the Future
The ozone story remains a powerful reminder:
- Science and evidence can drive global policy.
- International cooperation works when there’s a shared goal.
- Timely, systematic action can prevent environmental catastrophe.
These lessons are urgently needed in today’s fight against climate change, where bold, coordinated steps are essential.
The ozone layer is healing!
Scientists estimate that, with continued implementation of the Montreal Protocol and its amendments, ozone levels could return to 1980 benchmarks by:
- 2040 for most of the world
- 2045 over the Arctic
- 2066 over Antarctica
This recovery is a testament to the power of global agreements and collective action.
Every action counts
As UN Secretary-General António Guterres noted in his 2025 World Ozone Day message:
“Implementing the Kigali Amendment could avoid up to 0.5 degrees Celsius of warming by the end of the century. Paired with energy-efficient cooling, we could double these gains. Every fraction of a degree matters. Every action counts.”
