Adopted in 1985 and entering into force in 1988, it was created in rapid response to the scientific discovery of a massive hole in Earth’s ozone layer over Antarctica. It forced nations to cooperate on scientific research to track the destruction caused by human-made chemicals.
The Montreal Protocol Connection: While the Vienna Convention itself did not include legally binding emission reduction targets, it acted as the essential parent framework that directly led to the historic Montreal Protocol (1987). The Montreal Protocol successfully phased out 99% of ozone-depleting substances, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) used in old refrigerators and aerosol sprays.
The Vienna Convention and its Montreal Protocol are globally historic as the only environmental treaties to achieve universal ratification, signed and legally enforced by every single country on Earth (198 parties).