Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
ZIMBABWE is targeting a 10 percent reduction in the consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by 2029 as the country intensifies efforts to protect the ozone layer and promote sustainable cooling technologies.
Addressing journalists in Harare on Monday, Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu, said the target was being implemented under the country’s Stage I Kigali Implementation Plan in line with global efforts to phase down HFCs, which are potent greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.
Minister Ndlovu said this in a statement ahead of World Ozone Day, commemorated on September 16 under the theme: “Global Action for a cooler planet: Celebrating 10 years of sustainable cooling under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.”
“Aligned with these global efforts, the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife is currently implementing the Stage I Kigali Implementation Plan. The Kigali Plan targets a 10 percent reduction in HFC consumption by 2029,” she said.
The minister said the initiatives were being implemented in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme and the United Nations Development Programme.
She said the Government, with support from UN agencies and the Multilateral Fund, has procured tools and equipment for refrigeration and air-conditioning technicians, which have been distributed to polytechnic institutions and refrigerant recovery centres across the country.
“Additional equipment for customs officers, essential for curbing illegal trade in controlled substances, is expected to arrive shortly,” Minister Ndlovu said.
She said Zimbabwe was also working with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority and the refrigeration industry to strengthen national compliance with the Montreal Protocol.
The Montreal Protocol, adopted in 1987, seeks to phase out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances, particularly those used in refrigeration, air-conditioning and industrial applications.
Minister Ndlovu said the ozone layer was critical to protecting human health and the environment by absorbing most harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun.
She said increased exposure to ultraviolet radiation resulting from ozone depletion could contribute to skin cancer, cataracts, immune suppression, reduced agricultural productivity and damage to aquatic ecosystems.
This year marks 10 years since the adoption of the Kigali Amendment, which seeks to phase down HFCs.
Minister Ndlovu said the amendment has so far been ratified by 174 countries, with universal ratification expected before the end of the year.
She said Zimbabwe remained committed to protecting the ozone layer and contributing to global climate resilience.
“Together, we will continue to uphold the principles of the Montreal Protocol as amended in Kigali and ensure the protection of life on Earth,” she said.
