Governments will gather to discuss ways to eliminate HCFCs (hydrochlorofluorocarbons) in Montreal from September 17 to 21. These ozone depleting gases, found in fridges and air conditioners, also have a profound effect on climate change.

“A deal by 191 nations to eliminate ozone-depleting substances 10 years ahead of schedule is a “pivotal moment” in the fight against global warming, Canadian Environment Minister John Baird said on Saturday.” This will not only help fight against ozone depletion but climate change as well.

Canadian Environment Minister John Baird is using the Montreal Protocol as an example to follow for dealing with climate change challenges. However, some don’t believe this approach will work since the Protocol did not have equal binding targets.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency is considering whether to modify the federal health standard for smog. “The EPA has said, based on various studies, cutting smog to 75 from 80 parts per billion would prevent between 900 and 1,100 premature deaths a year and lead to 1,400 fewer nonfatal heart attacks and 5,600 fewer hospital or emergency room visits.”

The Globe and Mail

UN scientists say they expect a “normal” ozone hole this year.

Geir Braathen of the World Meteorological Organization says it is still too early to say for sure how big the ozone hole will be over Antarctica.

He told reporters in Geneva on Friday, however, that it is likely to be smaller than the very large hole of 2006 but more pronounced than last year’s relatively small hole.