UNEP's 1994 Scientific Assessment confirmed the need for the immediate controls on the production and use of methyl bromide in both developed and developing countries. Of the four policy actions that are available for the protection of the ozone layer, the Scientific Assessment identified placing controls on methyl bromide as having the largest impact. The Scientific Assessment concluded that 'If emissions of methyl bromide from agricultural and industrial activities were to be eliminated in the year 2001' the stratospheric chlorine/bromine loading (relative to 1980 levels) is predicted to be 13% less over the next 50 years. (WMO 1994:xxiii)

At the same time, UNEP's MBTOC report has identified technically feasible alternatives (available or requiring further development) for about 90% of methyl bromide use (MBTOC 1994:3).

Clearly, the earliest possible phase out of methyl bromide production and use is the environmental imperative. [2]