India to phase out hydrochlorofluorocarbons by 2030: Ramesh

This will be achieved in line with the Montreal Protocol, a treaty to protect the ozone layer. "By 2013, we are going to eliminate the use of HCFCs at 2009 levels. We hope to achieve the target deadline as we have already phased out choloflourocarbons (another ozone-depleting substance) 17 months ahead of the schedule year of 2010." Ramesh said at a function to mark 'Ozone Day'.

He also pointed out that India has played an important role in framing the Montreal Protocol which was signed on September 16, 1987 by the members of the United Nations to take steps to protect the ozone layer.

The ozone-depleting chemicals are used in industrial and pharmaceutical aerosols, refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment, foam manufacturing, fire extinguishing equipment and pre-shipment applications.

The depletion of ozone layer in the stratosphere allows the ultraviolet rays of the sun to reach the earth exposing mankind, flora and fauna to its harmful effect. According to the World Health Organisation, each year between 2-3 million skin cancers are detected worldwide and upto 20 per cent of these may be cause by sun exposure.