Seizure of CFCs, Calcutta, 2004 Earth from space, 2002. © NASA

EIA uses its unique investigative skills to tackle one of the greatest threats to global ecological security - depletion of the ozone layer.

Life on Earth depends on the fragile ozone layer to screen out harmful ultraviolet radiation. In the mid-1980s scientists first observed a 'hole’ in this ozone layer over the Antarctic – resulting from widespread use of a range of ozone-depleting substances (ODS).

Chemicals containing chlorine and bromine are the culprits causing damage to the ozone layer. These include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) mostly used for refrigeration and air-conditioning, and halons, used to extinguish fires.

In 1987 the international community came together to sign the Montreal Protocol convention, under which ozone-depleting substances will eventually be phased out. Yet by the mid-1990s the gradual phase-out schedule had prompted the emergence of a thriving illegal trade in CFCs and halons.

EIA is the only international NGO working to expose the smuggling of ozone-depleting substances, and is the acknowledged expert group on the subject. EIA’s detailed evidence on the global illegal trade in CFCs and halons has been presented to Montreal Protocol member countries, as well as enforcement agencies around the world.

EIA’s unique investigations into the smuggling networks have taken undercover teams to many countries including the UK, France, Germany, Spain, China, and India. To uncover the illegal trade routes and methods EIA has set up a network of dummy companies to carry out business discussions with the black market brokers and suppliers. EIA investigators posing as chemicals buyers have met face-to-face with the main dealers in Europe and China, gathering incriminating evidence.

In 1997 EIA launched a damning report revealing inaction by the European authorities in the face of significant CFC smuggling. EIA’s report called for a total sales ban in the European Union. This came into effect in October 2000.

The following year EIA released a second report, exposing the role played by China as the main source of illegally-traded CFCs and halons, and the activities of a group of US firms using false paperwork to avoid detection. This report prompted the US authorities to tighten import procedures for these chemicals and led to internal investigations by the Chinese authorities.

EIA’s body of knowledge on this subject is unsurpassed. It continues to monitor and investigate illegal trade activities focusing on the dramatic increase in smuggling of these substances in developing countries and is independently monitoring the effectiveness of the EU ban. EIA is also lobbying the Montreal Protocol to give greater priority to fighting illegal trade and enforcing the phase-out of these damaging chemicals.

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