Evaluating the phaseout of ozone-depleting substances in transition economies provides insight into sustaining global environmental agreements.

Phasing out ozone-depleting substances is one of the earliest large-scale tests of global environmental cooperation.

This evaluation assesses the long-term results of GEF support to the phaseout of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) in 18 countries with economies in transition (CEITs) between 1993 and 2007, covering 25 national and regional projects with over $183 million in funding.

Using a theory of change approach, case studies in Kazakhstan, Russia, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan, and before-and-after analysis of ODS consumption, the evaluation examines both environmental outcomes and the drivers of success. GEF assistance contributed to the elimination of about 19,260 ODP tonnes of consumption annually, the phaseout of nearly 29,000 ODP tonnes of Russian production capacity, and avoided greenhouse gas emissions equal to 1.155 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide.

Success hinged on government commitment to legislation and enforcement, and on private-sector uptake of new technologies, though non-EU CEITs struggled with weak institutions, illegal trade, and inadequate halon management.

The report recommends investing in facilities for ODS destruction, strengthening national ozone units and customs enforcement, and applying lessons from effective private-sector engagement to other focal areas.