KOTA KINABALU: A seven-month study conducted in Antarctica during winter has uncovered new findings that pose a challenge to the Montreal Protocol, according to Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) scientist Professor Dr Justin Sentian.
The Montreal Protocol is a global agreement made in 1987 to protect the Earth's ozone layer by phasing out the production and use of harmful chemicals, like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
These chemicals were used in things like refrigerators, air conditioners, and spray cans but were found to damage the ozone layer, which protects us from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun.
The researcher from Ranau said his preliminary findings suggest that natural halocarbons, found in ice and water during winter, are released into the atmosphere during summer.
If confirmed, he said these findings could require governments to reassess their strategies to balance human and natural emissions affecting the ozone layer.
"Halocarbons are produced naturally, especially in winter when the levels are quite high. This halocarbon species is a species that contains chlorine, bromine, and also fluorine, and also iodine that exists in the sea water, which is produced by bacteria, algae, and so on.
"These compounds are then released back into the stratosphere during the summer, which could interfere with the Montreal Protocol's goals.
"Although the protocol has been highly successful in reducing human-induced emissions like CFCs, the emerging data on natural emissions presents a new challenge," he said, adding his study that would likely be published and reviewed next year.
He was speaking to the media during the Malaysia Book of Records Award Ceremony for the Antarctic Winter Research Program at the varsity here. Justin sets two records for being the first and being the longest researcher at the South Pole.
The Yayasan Penyelidikan Antartika Sultan Mizan also sets a record leading the first-ever winter research expedition in Antarctica.
Justin also said that his research highlights the interconnectedness between Antarctica and the global climate, particularly for maritime countries like Malaysia.
He noted that the depletion of the ozone layer, along with rising UV radiation, contributes to the melting of Antarctic ice, which could have far-reaching effects, especially Malaysia being a maritime country.
Meanwhile, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor commended UMS and Justin's achievement in leading a research expedition to Antarctica during the winter.
He added that Justin's accomplishment not only represents his personal success but also a symbol of pride and achievement for Malaysia, the state of Sabah, and UMS.
The State Minister of Youth and Sports, Datuk Ellron Alfred Angin, read his speech.