Why did every country visit the city of Kigali in 2016?

It’s quite the same reason why all governments of 197 countries went to Montreal, Canada in 1987 – to save the ozone layer (and beyond).

Why did the ozone layer need saving?

Apocalypse anxiety, in short.

While the 80s is remembered for the Spielberg era, MTV’s debut, Madonna, and big hair, the fear of “the end of the world” emerged when a group of scientists discovered the Ozone Hole. By nature, the ozone layer softens the sun’s UVB ray before it reaches us, making the fatal level of radiation intensity appropriate for lives.

The Antarctic Ozone Hole [Credit: Ozone Secretariat]

The continued global commitment: Kigali Amendment

Beyond saving the ozone layer, which is now on track for recovery, the Montreal Protocol has extended its mandatory target to reduce 80 - 85% of HFCs by year 2045 – 2047 under the Kigali Amendment.

Ratified by over 155 countries, as of October 2023, the Kigali Amendment prioritizes addressing climate change by reducing planet-warming emissions of HFCs. In 2047, the phase-down of HFCs will be completed, preventing the emissions of up to 420 billion metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent of greenhouse gases by 2100. So yes, Countries met again because the Kigali Amendment is projected to help avoid 0.3–0.5°C of global temperature rise by 2100! Definitely, a very very good reason indeed.