Vuyisile Mlilo, Sunday News Reporter
PRACTITIONERS working with hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) machines such as refrigerators and fridges have been urged to contribute to global efforts of reducing HFC emissions.
The Ministry of Environment last week held a workshop in Bulawayo to educate practitioners on the need to reduce HFC emissions, which could prevent up to half a degree Celsius of global warming. Mr George Chaumba, the Ozone Project Manager at the Ministry of Environment, stressed the importance of the role each practitioner plays in contributing to global efforts in reducing HFC emissions.
“The workshop focused on raising awareness about the Kigali Amendment and educating participants on how to effectively implement related measures in their work. There is a need for technicians, engineers, and other professionals working with HFC-centric machines to adopt environmentally friendly practices that align with the goals of the amendment,” said Mr Chaumba
Highlighting the relevance of the Montreal Protocol, Mr Chaumba discussed how it has served as a global framework for protecting the ozone layer and phasing out harmful substances.
“The workshop provides a platform for participants to exchange knowledge, learn best practices, and enhance their understanding of the Kigali Amendment’s provisions. Participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the workshop and vowed to champion the implementation of sustainable practices in their respective fields.”
The Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with international partners, organised the workshop to ensure that professionals in Bulawayo are well-informed about the changes and impact brought about by the Kigali Amendment. It is a global agreement to protect the Earth’s ozone layer by phasing out the chemicals that deplete it. This phase-out plan includes both the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances. The landmark agreement was signed in 1987 and entered into force in 1989.
