The year was 1987, Regan was getting his prostate operated on, hair styles were crazy, and fashion was experiencing a dark age. Something magical, however, did happen that year, and it wasn’t the fact that Margaret Thatcher managed to get elected for a third time. It was the signing of the Montreal Protocol.

The Earth’s ozone layer is on track to heal, thanks to the work of dozens of countries that signed a landmark international environmental agreement initiated 20 years ago. Known as the Montreal Protocol, this ambitious treaty requires countries to phase out production and use of compounds that deplete ozone in the stratosphere. Initially signed by 24 countries Sept.16, 1987 in Montreal, this treaty today covers 191 countries and is widely hailed as the most successful international environmental agreement to date.

“Twenty years ago, the community of nations came together to adopt a global strategy for the global challenge of ozone depletion. Today, we at EPA join our international partners in celebrating the anniversary of the Montreal Protocol – a shining example of how human ingenuity, leadership and determination can create a healthier, better world,” said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson.

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