Manitoba Ozone Depleting Substances Management Program

Stratospheric Ozone Depletion

The depletion of the earth’s stratospheric ozone layer by ozone depleting substances means more harmful ultraviolet rays are penetrating the atmosphere. Ultraviolet radiation rays are known to have detrimental effects on humans resulting in sunburn, skin cancer and cataracts, as well as having impacts on plants and animals. Chemical substances that destroy ozone molecules contain either chlorine or bromine and are collectively referred to as ozone depleting substances (ODS), and include: chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), halons, and other halocarbons. These substances are used in refrigeration, air-conditioning, and fire extinguishing equipment, as well as in solvents and sterilants.

Scientific research has discovered that a single chlorine atom can destroy 100,000 ozone molecules. Halons are potentially 10 times more destructive.

Canada and the rest of the international community determined that the severity of this issue required collective action to protect the ozone layer from being completely destroyed. In 1987, Canada was one of the nations that signed the Montreal Protocol, which now has over 180 signatories. The intent of this international agreement is to gradually phase-out and eliminate the use of ODS worldwide.

Legislation
Following public consultation, Manitoba has passed the Ozone Depleting Substances and Other Halocarbons Regulation under the Ozone Depleting Substances Act. Click to view the background on the 2005 regulatory amendments (PDF).

News Releases
Ozone Protection Regulations Introduced - December 07, 2005
New Rules Proposed to Protect the Earth's Stratospheric Ozone Layer - June 06, 2005