Brunei Darussalam managed to reduce the use of ozone depleting substances (ODS) by 61.8 per cent, achieving the target baseline set by the Montreal Protocol, Director of the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe) Hajah Martinah binti Haji Tamit said.
She said this in her welcoming remarks at the nationwide talk on the use of cooling equipment containing flammable gas, in conjunction with the World Ozone Day (WOD) 2024 celebration, at a hotel yesterday.
“With the cooperation of all stakeholders, Brunei Darussalam will be able to reach its next target of 67.5 per cent in 2025,” she added. The target is achieved through the Import Permit System and the allocation of hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) import quotas which came into force on January 1, 2013 and also the cooperation of relevant agencies.
Explaining the Montreal Protocol, she said, “In 1985, the Vienna Convention for the protection of the ozone layer and the Montreal Protocol were established to ensure the protection and restoration of the ozone layer.
“The convention agreed that high commitment from all countries is required to control the production and use of ozone depleting substances that contain chlorine such as chloroflourocarbon (CFC) and HCFC.”
Therefore, she said, “WOD is celebrated on September 16 every year to commemorate the commitment and obligation of each member country to protect the earth’s ozone layer.”
This year’s WOD, themed ‘Montreal Protocol: Advancing Climate Action’, “celebrates over three decades of commitment and efforts implemented by member countries”.
The briefing was split into four topics: Introduction of ozone layer and Montreal Protocol; Introduction on Best practices in the use of flammable gas; Energy Efficiency (Standards and Labelling) Act; and Fire Safety Certification and Fire Safety Order.
Some 200 participants, including Legislative Council members Yang Berhormat Amran bin Haji Maidin, Yang Berhormat Lawi bin Haji Lamat, Yang Berhormat Haji Daud bin Jihan, Yang Berhormat Zainol bin Mohamed and Yang Berhormat Mohammad Ali bin Tanjong with mukim penghulus and village heads from the Brunei-Muara District and officers from government agencies, were present.
The dissemination aimed to equip grassroots leaders with knowledge on the role and importance of the Montreal Protocol and the procedures of using air conditioners that utilise flammable gases and energy saving equipment.
It also aimed to increase awareness on the negative effects of ODS on the ozone layer and promote alternatives, while highlighting best practices, such as using certified technicians for servicing equipment and ensuring flammable gases used are approved by JASTRe.
The talk will also be held in other districts this month. – James Kon
