Bangkok: South Africa recently participated in the 36th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (MOP 36) in Bangkok, Thailand, reaffirming its commitment to eliminating ozone-depleting substances.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Montreal Protocol, established in 1987, is a landmark global treaty aimed at protecting the ozone layer by phasing out ozone-depleting substances (ODS). However, some ODS replacements, specifically hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), have emerged as potent greenhouse gases, significantly contributing to climate change. At MOP 36, South Africa celebrated the allocation of $1 billion to the Multilateral Fund to assist developing nations in meeting their Protocol obligations, highlighting the international dedication to this critical cause.
South Africa, as one of Africa’s most industrialised nations, recognizes its role as a leader in climate action. The national action plan emphasizes transitioning the Refrigeration and
Air Conditioning (RAC) sector towards greener refrigerants and energy-efficient systems. This shift aligns with global climate goals, creating jobs and enhancing sustainability within the country’s industrial landscape. By managing refrigerants effectively, South Africa aims to contribute to reducing global warming by 0.5°C, demonstrating that industry-specific actions can yield impactful climate outcomes.
The country is also committed to the full life-cycle management of refrigerants, ensuring that substances are properly controlled, recovered, recycled, or reclaimed. During MOP 36, South Africa showcased its dedication to sustainable practices by training hundreds of technicians, particularly young people, in energy-efficient refrigeration and air-conditioning technologies. The government, through the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), plans to train 1,600 more young people in these technologies, investing in local capacity to minimize environmental impact over the long term.
So
uth Africa also addressed a significant issue of continental importance: the lack of sufficient monitoring facilities across Africa. While it operates three monitoring stations through its Weather Services, there is an urgent need for additional resources to expand this capability. The country called for financial assistance to establish more state-of-the-art monitoring stations across Africa, enhancing the global repository of scientific data for tracking and managing emissions. This call for support emphasizes Africa’s crucial role in contributing to a global climate response.
In addition to these efforts, South Africa has made significant progress in phasing out methyl bromide, a highly ozone-depleting substance, underscoring its commitment to long-term environmental sustainability. Another critical issue addressed at MOP 36 was the healthcare sector’s reliance on ozone-depleting substances, particularly in metered-dose inhalers. South Africa urged a shift to greener alternatives, emphasizing the dual imp
ortance of public health and environmental protection.
The country’s experience also highlights the value of strict regulatory enforcement to prevent illegal trade in controlled substances and low-efficiency products. By investing in customs training to detect illegal trade, South Africa addresses an often-overlooked aspect of environmental governance: preventing leakage through illicit imports and exports that could undermine international agreements. The proposal included a two-pronged approach-strict regulations and penalties for non-compliance-aimed at helping all nations meet their environmental goals.
During remarks at MOP 36, South Africa called for the ratification of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, urging all nations to take action against climate-warming HFCs. This appeal highlights the interconnected nature of environmental challenges and the importance of collective global action. The Montreal Protocol stands as a model for effective international cooperation, and South Africa’s c
all for universal ratification underscores its commitment to preserving and extending its benefits.
The country’s presence at MOP 36 served as a powerful reminder of the urgency of climate action. Through robust national initiatives and a vision for global cooperation, South Africa called on the world to strengthen efforts in environmental protection, ozone layer preservation, and climate change mitigation for future generations. Its actions and commitments reflect a roadmap for immediate impact and a testament to the resilience needed to secure a sustainable future for all.