Protection of Stratospheric Ozone: Allowance System for Controlling HCFC Production, Import and Export

EPA is establishing an allowance system to control the U.S. consumption and production of ozone-depleting substances (ODSs)known as hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). While much less destructive to the stratospheric ozone layer than chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), HCFCs do contribute to ozone depletion and alternatives are generally available. The HCFC allowance system is part of EPA's program to reduce the emissions of ODSs to protect the stratospheric ozone layer. Protection of the stratospheric ozone layer helps reduce rates of skin cancer and cataracts. The U.S. is obligated under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer to limit HCFC consumption to a specific level and to reduce it in a step-wise fashion beginning January 1, 2004. The U.S. has also agreed to limit production to a specific level beginning January 1, 2004. This action also includes a petition process for exemptions to the January 1, 2003, phaseout of HCFC-141b.