EPA is proposing a rule that would decrease consumption and production of hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) emissions, which are ozone-depleting substances and potent greenhouse gases, according to an agency press statement.

The proposed rule would decrease the consumption and production of HCFCs for the years 2010 to 2014. Consumption and production will be reduced by at least 75 percent in 2010. As a party to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, the U.S. will completely phase out HCFCs in 2030.

This action will also amend provisions concerning HCFC production for developing countries’ basic domestic needs and would clarify a ban on the sale and distribution of HCFCs through interstate commerce under the Clean Air Act, according to the agency.

EPA will accept comments on the proposed rule for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register.

One hundred ninety-three countries are parties to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. Signed in 1987, this successful treaty is helping to heal the ozone layer by ending the production of ozone-depleting substances.