Landmark Ozone Treaty Negotiator, Richard Benedick, Passes Away at 88
TL/DR –
A 1985 report in Nature revealed a large hole in the ozone layer caused by the widespread use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). In response, numerous nations met in Montreal in 1987 to sign an agreement to significantly reduce CFCs, which was estimated to prevent 27 million deaths from skin cancer. Richard E. Benedick, the chief US negotiator and a key player in the success of this agreement, known as the Montreal Protocol, died on March 16, 2022, aged 88.
A Major Environmental Victory
In 1985, a worrying development was reported in the journal Nature: a massive hole had formed in the ozone layer above Antarctica. This confirmed scientists’ warnings from the 1970s that atmospheric ozone was being depleted by chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), commonly used in aerosols and air-conditioning.
The Montreal Protocol
In less than three years following the report, numerous nations convened in Montreal and agreed to cut back on CFCs significantly, a move that the EPA predicted would prevent 27 million skin cancer deaths. The Montreal Protocol has since been lauded as a significant international environmental agreement.
The Man Behind the Agreement
Richard E. Benedick, the primary US negotiator for the Montreal Protocol and a career diplomat, passed away on March 16th, aged 88. His determined efforts and strategic approach towards foreign countries led to the successful negotiation of this global treaty on atmospheric pollution.
Making a Difference
The Montreal Protocol mandated a 50% reduction in CFC use and was ratified by 24 countries in September 1987. It is now enforced worldwide, leading to a gradual decrease in long-lived ozone-depleting chemicals. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts that the ozone hole above Antarctica will recover by the 2060s.
Remembering Benedick
Richard Elliott Benedick was born on May 10, 1935, in the Bronx. He was a distinguished diplomat with postings in Iran, Pakistan, France, and Germany. He played a pivotal role in the Montreal Protocol and was recognized for his energy and passion in advocating environmental causes.
The Challenges of Climate Change
Upon his return to the State Department under President George H.W. Bush, Benedick aimed to apply his well-honed diplomacy skills to the pressing issue of global warming, which scientists had begun to identify as the most significant environmental threat. However, political journey towards a global treaty on carbon emissions remained fraught with obstacles.
A Naturalist at Heart
Despite not being a scientist, Benedick was a great admirer of nature and loved outdoor activities. His daughter fondly recalls multiple family trips to national parks planned by Benedick and his excitement at watching sunrises over these natural landscapes.
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