Vienna, Sep 16 (IANS/WAM): UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has underlined the importance of the Montreal Protocol to address the climate challenge on the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, being observed Tuesday.

"Just over a quarter-century ago, the world was united to reverse the rapid depletion of the atmospheric ozone layer, which protects earth from harmful radiation from space. Today, the ozone layer is well on track to recovery within the next few decades," he said in his message.

The UN secretary general emphasised the importance of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer is widely recognised as one of the most successful environmental treaties in history.

It establishes legally binding controls on national production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances, and enjoys universal ratification by 197 parties.

"The Protocol has also significantly contributed to the fight against climate change, as many ozone-depleting substances are powerful greenhouse gases. Climate change is affecting communities, economies and ecosystems across the globe. It is essential that we act to mitigate the threat with the same unity of purpose as we have in facing the dangers of ozone depletion.

"Let us take inspiration from our efforts to preserve the ozone layer. The Montreal Protocol has shown that decisive action by the international community, including the private sector, can achieve transformative results for the common good. Let us learn from this example and apply its lesson to the urgent task of addressing the climate challenge," the UN secretary-general said.