The ozone layer absorbs some of the potentially harmful ultra-violet (UV) radiation from the sun which can cause skin cancer and damage vegetation. EU countries are obliged to phase out ozone-depleting substances such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydro fluorocarbons (HCFCs). Malta initially made two negotiating requests on this law.

One was in relation to HCFCs. The other was for another transition period until end of 2008 to phase out methyl bromide.

With regards to HCFCs, Malta will now be allocated a portion of the EU's quota which will more than cover Malta's current allocation. Once this was achieved, Malta could withdraw its request because it was no longer necessary.

On methyl bromide, the main issue for Malta was the use of this substance for soil sterilisation. Malta will now phase out methyl bromide by the end of 2005 which is the timeframe that is already allowed under EU law. The transition period was therefore withdrawn.

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