Which international agreement regulates the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances?

• A. Kyoto Protocol
• B. Paris Agreement
• C. Montreal Protocol
• D. Basel Convention

Answer: (C)

The question tests understanding of which international pact directly controls the production and use of chemicals that erode the ozone layer. The Montreal Protocol is the treaty that does this: it identifies ozone-depleting substances such as CFCs and halons, sets phasedown and phaseout schedules, and provides rules for production, consumption, and trade to reduce these substances worldwide. Over time it has been strengthened with amendments to add more substances and tighten controls, driving a global reduction in ozone-depleting chemicals and supporting the recovery of the ozone layer.

In contrast, the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions to address climate change, not specifically on ozone depletion. The Basel Convention governs the cross-border movement and disposal of hazardous wastes, not ozone-depleting substances. Therefore, the Montreal Protocol is the correct choice.