Pakistan Achieves Major Milestones in Ozone Layer Protection: Romina

APP

Islamabad: Pakistan phased out the first generation of Ozone Depleting Substances by 2009 and achieved a 50 percent reduction in HCFCs by January 2020. 

“We are successfully moving towards the 67.5 percent reduction target by 2025,” stated Romina Khurshid Alam, the PM’s Coordinator on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, in Islamabad on Wednesday. 

Romina highlighted the country’s achievements, including the conversion of numerous industries to ozone-friendly technologies, and affirmed that Pakistan is on track to meet future targets, showcasing collective resolve.

Alam emphasized that global efforts to recover the ozone hole are being maximized, with the ministry focusing on the critical aspect of protecting the ozone layer.

“Unfortunately, human activities have led to the depletion of the ozone layer, resulting in the formation of the ozone hole, which poses severe risks.

However, it is encouraging that under the United Nations Vienna Convention and its Montreal Protocol, global efforts have significantly recovered the ozone hole,” she added.

Addressing the National Ozone Unit of the Ministry of Climate Change during a training program for customs and enforcement officers on the Montreal Protocol and HCFC control, Romina Khurshid Alam emphasized the critical importance of the ozone layer. “The ozone layer is vital for life on Earth,” she stated, “as it shields us from the sun’s harmful radiation, preventing severe health issues such as skin cancer and cataracts, and protecting ecosystems and wildlife.”

Highlighting Pakistan’s commitment to UN conventions, Alam noted that Pakistan has been a significant participant in these agreements.

Pakistan ratified the Montreal Protocol in 1992, committing to phasing out ozone-depleting substances (ODS). Since then, the country has made substantial progress, with the establishment of a dedicated National Ozone Unit (NOU) in 1996. 

This unit, in collaboration with Pakistan Customs, the refrigeration and air conditioning industry, the Ministry of Commerce, technicians and engineers, importers, and traders, has successfully completed ten phases of the Montreal Protocol.

Alam underscored the crucial role of customs officers in managing ozone-depleting substances, ensuring strict enforcement of regulations, and preventing illegal imports. Their vigilance and expertise are vital in implementing measures to protect and regenerate the ozone layer, safeguarding both the environment and public health. 

This training is essential as customs and enforcement officers play a key role in monitoring and preventing the illegal trade of ODS, ensuring that borders and markets remain free from substances that harm the ozone layer. 

The NOU has significantly enhanced national capacity by training more than 2,500 technicians and over 300 customs officers to handle and regulate ODS effectively.

Reaffirming her commitment, Alam stated, “Our journey does not end here. We remain resolute in our commitment to environmental protection and are now preparing for the upcoming HFC phase-down under the Kigali Amendment.”

She highlighted the Ministry’s climate actions, including the development of the Pakistan Cooling Action Plan in collaboration with Hima-Vertay and Clasp to reduce carbon emissions associated with cooling products.

Alam noted that holding this training in connection with World Environment Day 2024 was a testament to their true and practical dedication to environmental protection. 

“This joint effort reflects our commitment to the principles of the Montreal Protocol,” she said.

She concluded by reiterating the resolve of the incumbent government, guided by the Prime Minister’s unwavering commitment to climate action, adding, “Our collective efforts in protecting the ozone layer reflect our dedication to environmental protection and sustainable development.

Let us continue to work together, inspired by the theme of World Environment Day 2024, to safeguard our planet for future generations.”