Online Reporter
Anesu January
Herald Reporter
Zimbabwe today joins the international community in commemorating World Ozone Day and reaffirming its commitment to protecting the environment through the implementation of global climate agreements.
Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister Evelyn Ndlovu said in a statement the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, commonly referred to as World Ozone Day is observed on September 16 every year.
“This date commemorates the adoption of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, signed on 16 September 1987,” she said.
“The Montreal Protocol remains one of the most successful global environmental agreements, aiming to phase out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances (ODS), particularly those used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and industrial applications.
“The Government of Zimbabwe, as a committed Party to the Montreal Protocol and its amendments, joins the international community in commemorating this important occasion.”
Dr Ndlovu said that her ministry is implementing the Second Stage Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) Phase-out Management Plan (HPMP) and the Stage I Kigali Implementation Plan, which aims to eliminate HCFC consumption by 1 January 2030.
“The Kigali Plan targets a 10 percent reduction in HFC consumption by 2029,” she said.
“These initiatives are being executed in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme and the United Nations Development Programme and to support these efforts, tools and equipment have been procured for use by refrigeration and air conditioning technicians and distributed to polytechnic institutions and refrigerant recovery centres nationwide.
“Additional equipment for customs officers, essential for curbing illegal trade in controlled substances, is expected to arrive shortly.”
Dr Ndlovu acknowledges the support of the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority and the refrigeration industry in advancing the national compliance with the Montreal Protocol.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to all stakeholders for their continued engagement and dedication to phasing out ozone-depleting substances and high-global-warming-potential gases, and the unwavering support that reinforces Zimbabwe’s commitment to protecting the ozone layer and contributing to global climate resilience.,” she said.
“Together, we will continue to uphold the principles of the Montreal Protocol and ensure the protection of life on Earth.”
Peter Tanyanyiwa