The European Union is supporting six Latin American and Caribbean countries in their efforts to reduce the use of climate-warming and ozone-depleting refrigerants. Through trainings for policymakers across the region, an EU-funded project is promoting alternatives to these refrigerants – contributing to the success of the Montreal Protocol signed 31 years ago this week as well as to the implementation of the Paris Agreement on climate change.
Most cooling appliances in use today consume highly climate-warming greenhouse gases, some of which also deplete the ozone layer. Action is being taken worldwide under the Montreal Protocol to reduce consumption and production of ozone-depleting substances. This global phase-out is reducing emissions of these substances and the resulting higher UV radiation, thereby reducing risks of skin cancer, eye problems and weaker immune systems, as well as negative effects on the world’s biodiversity. Furthermore, it also helps to mitigate climate change, as these chemicals are also super greenhouse gases with a strong effect on climate change.
In 2016, member countries of the Montreal Protocol agreed a landmark deal – the so-called ‘Kigali amendment’ – to also cut consumption and production of hydrofluorocarbons. These gases are highly warming but do not deplete the ozone layer. It is estimated that successful implementation of the Kigali amendment will avoid a global temperature increase of up to 0.5°C by 2100.
Through its Partnership Instrument, the EU supports Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Grenada, Mexico, Paraguay and Venezuela to fulfil their obligations under the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali amendment. The project implemented by UNDP, UNIDO and GIZ includes promoting climate-friendly solutions for phasing out ozone-depleting substances and devices.
Through dedicated GIZ Proklima Cool Training, the EU engages with experts and policymakers on the safe use of natural refrigerants in the refrigeration and air conditioning sector. Launched in 2014, these trainings are mainly intended for international technicians and trainers, as well as political decision-makers from developing countries and emerging economies.
Background
World Ozone Day takes place in September every year and commemorates the date of the signing of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer in 1987.
The EU’s Partnership Instrument funds projects that enable the EU to advance its strategic interests, shape global change and promote its fundamental values. Through the Partnership Instrument, the EU cooperates with partners around the world to address global challenges and find joint solutions to issues of mutual interest.
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Details
- Publication date
- 20 September 2018
- Author
- Service for Foreign Policy Instruments