The world is a special kind of screwed.

[GliderGuider]

Ozone-Depleting Compound Found In Unexpected Concentrations Despite Ban

New measurements have revealed that despite the Montreal Protocol, which limits the use of a variety of ozone-depleting chemicals, releases of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) continue. There should be zero emissions of the compound under the international agreement, but NASA measurements show an average of 39 kilotons are still emitted every year. That's about 30 percent of what peak emissions were before the substance was regulated. The Montreal Protocol, adopted in 1987, phased out the use of ozone-depleting chemicals, including CCl4, over time. After 2007, its more than 200 signatories reported no new emissions of CCl4.

The video above, released by NASA Goddard this week, explains the research by atmospheric scientist Qing Liang. "We are not supposed to be seeing this at all," Liang said in a NASA press release. "It is now apparent there are either unidentified industrial leakages, large emissions from contaminated sites, or unknown CCl4 sources."

I remember using carbon tetrachloride in killing jars while making insect collections as a kid (the son of an entomologist picks up some odd hobbies). And of course it was in fire extinguishers all over the place. Looks like someone didn't get the memo.

[KT2000]

1. I used it to clean spots

in a drapery factory where I worked. I didn't know it was banned - I was using what was left of the stock. I remember getting sick from it - dizzy - and my hands turned white. When they wouldn't give me gloves, I brought my own and they melted at the fingertips.

As for where it is coming from - all of the above. Corporations lie if it makes them money.