The Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Ishaq Salako, has said that the Federal Government is committed to phasing out 51.35 percent of Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC) consumption by the end of the year.

Hydrochlorofluorocarbons are chemical compounds commonly used in the foam, refrigeration, and air conditioning sectors that destroy the protective ozone layer and contribute to climate change.

Salako noted at an event to commemorate the 2023 World Ozone Day that having completed the activities for the Hydrochlorofluorocarbons Phase-out Management Plan in 2018, the country was building on that to completely phase out HCFC -141b in foam-related applications.

The Minister, who was represented by Director, Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Charles Ikeah, also said support would be given to the relevant sector to phase out 167.81 tonnes of HCFC-22, a gas commonly used as a propellant and refrigerant.

He said: “After completion of our HPMP stage I activities in 2018, the Protocol approved the project’s Stage II the same year, expected to end by 2025. Stage II HPMP builds on the achievements of the previous Stage and aims at achieving the complete phase-out of HCFC-141b in foam-related applications and to initiate support to the servicing sector to phase out 167.81 Ozone Depletion Potential tonnes of HCFC-22. The overall commitment of Stage II is to phase out 51.35% of HCFC consumption by this year.”

He noted that to achieve the set goals, the FG in collaboration with other relevant agencies has upskilled 22 trainers in Italy on safe practices using Hydrocarbon Refrigerants & improving Energy Efficiency in the Refrigeration and air conditioning Sector.

“Supply, distribution & installation of 4 pressure foaming machines designed to use Ozone-friendly blowing agent to beneficiary companies producing ice-making machines and other refrigeration equipment, including training of the beneficiaries on their operation.

“Procurement of Refrigeration & Air conditioning servicing tools and equipment for 200 technicians and 18 training centers as well as a reclamation station,” Salako added.

Source: Punch