Final answer:
Eliminating chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) is crucial for ozone layer protection and addressing climate change. The Montreal Protocol plays a significant role in phasing out CFCs, but global cooperation is needed for success. Efforts include improving carbon sinks and developing carbon capture technologies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Capturing and ultimately eliminating the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) is critical to protect the ozone layer and combat climate change. International efforts, like the Montreal Protocol established in 1987, aim to phase out CFCs globally. However, their elimination requires worldwide cooperation, including participation from developing countries. CFCs have been widely used in products like refrigerators and air conditioning units; over time, they accumulate in the atmosphere where they contribute to the greenhouse effect and ozone depletion. Today, the largest contributor to CFC emissions is China, although there are signs of recovery in the ozone layer. Researchers like Susan Solomon from MIT have highlighted issues such as CFC "banks" where old equipment can still release CFCs into the atmosphere. In parallel to phasing out CFCs, there are efforts to pursue net zero emissions by enhancing carbon sinks through initiatives like reforestation and developing technologies for carbon capture.