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Presents an overview of research and legislation surrounding the depletion of the ozone layer. The origins of concern; Environmental cooperation and agreement on solutions; Causes of the depletion; International cooperation. INSET: A quick look at ozone chemistry..

The article reports that Montreal protocol was set up in 1987 to eliminate chemicals that damage the ozone layer. It has been hugely successful in phasing out chlorofluorocarbons, while the pesticide methyl bromide, the last major ozone-depleting chemical still in use, was due to be phased out by the end of 2004. At a meeting held by the UN Environment Programme in Prague on 26 November, 11 countries led by the US — which is by far the largest user of methyl bromide were granted exemption from the phase-out on the grounds that there are no viable alternatives.

Focuses on the British policy on the protection of the ozone layer. Impact of the revisions agreed upon in London concerning the Montreal Protocol; Phasing out of chlorofluorocarbon; Assessment of the impact of the reduction on ozone layer on the incidence of skin cancers according to the United Nations Panel on the Environmental Effects of Ozone depletion; Reaction of ICI, a company which produces ozone-destroying chemicals, to efforts to protect the environment.

Comments on developments on science policies in Great Britain. Member of parliament Ian Lloyd's urging for more representational democracy in science policy; Percentage of politicians attending the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee; Banning of aircraft to protect the ozone layer; Agencies concerned in controlling developments on Britain's seabed and foreshore.