What does the term "success story" related to CFCs and the Montreal Protocol illustrate?

The term "success story" in the context of CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) and the Montreal Protocol highlights a significant achievement in global environmental policy. It illustrates how the international community came together to address a pressing environmental issue: the depletion of the ozone layer caused by CFCs. The Montreal Protocol effectively phased out the production and use of substances that harm the ozone layer, leading to its recovery.

While this effort was initially a response to an immediate environmental crisis, it also serves as a reminder that the benefits of such interventions can come with unforeseen long-term implications. For instance, alternatives to CFCs were introduced, which, while safer for the ozone layer, may pose other environmental and health risks. This points to the complexity of environmental policymaking, where solutions to a specific problem can lead to new challenges.

Recognizing this nuance is essential in environmental science and policy, as it underscores the need for ongoing evaluation of new materials and technologies to ensure they do not inadvertently create additional environmental issues. Thus, the correct answer reflects the understanding that while the Montreal Protocol is a landmark achievement, it also exemplifies the intricacies of managing the environmental impacts of substances and the importance of considering holistic long-term effects when implementing solutions.