Paris, November 24 (RHC-PL) -- Cuban Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Environment, America Santos, highlighted in France her country's efforts to reduce the usage of ozone depleting substances and other measures to protect the Earth's delicate ecosystem.

Santos participated at a Paris meeting of signatories of the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol on Ozone depleting substances.

In statements to Prensa Latina, the deputy minister explained that the Caribbean nation boasts a Technical Ozone Office, responsible for coordinating and monitoring the national implementation program of the Montreal Protocol. That treaty, which entered into force in 1989, is considered the most successful international environmental agreement, given its positive impacts on human health and the environment.

Among the main achievements of Cuba include the total elimination of imports of CFCs and a ban on a highly contaminating substance called methyl bromide, formerly used in the agricultural sector. Moreover, programs for eliminating hydro chlorofluorocarbons are being implemented.

Santos recalled that scientific research shows positive signs in the recovery of the ozone layer, which filters sunlight and prevents the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.