Pakistan's Commitment to Ozone Layer Protection Receives Global Recognition: Romina Khurshid Alam
ISLAMABAD, June 05: Romina Khurshid Alam, the Prime Minister's Coordinator on Climate Change, highlighted the vital role of the ozone layer in shielding life on Earth from harmful solar radiation. She lauded Pakistan's commitment to the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty aimed at phasing out ozone-depleting substances (ODS).
Highlighting the alarming depletion of the ozone layer due to human activities, she underscored the importance of global cooperation under the United Nations Vienna Convention and its Montreal Protocol. She commended the collective efforts that have led to the recovery of the ozone hole to a considerable extent, minimizing risks posed by harmful radiation from the sun.
Addressing a training program for customs and enforcement officers on the Montreal Protocol and HCFC control, Romina emphasized Pakistan's commitment to international agreements. Pakistan ratified the Montreal Protocol in 1992, signaling its dedication to phasing out ozone-depleting substances. Since then, the country has made significant progress in this endeavor, with the establishment of the National Ozone Unit in 1996 to steer the process.
Romina lauded Pakistan's achievements in phasing out ozone-depleting substances, including a 50% reduction in HCFC by January 2020 and ongoing efforts to achieve a 67.5% reduction target by 2025. She credited collaborative efforts with various stakeholders, including Pakistan Customs, the refrigeration and air conditioning industry, and importers and traders, for these accomplishments.
Emphasizing the pivotal role of customs officers in managing ozone-depleting substances, She highlighted the importance of training programs. Over 2,500 technicians and 300 customs officers have undergone training, enhancing Pakistan's capacity to regulate these substances effectively and combat illegal trade.
Looking ahead, she reiterated Pakistan's commitment to environmental protection, with preparations underway for the forthcoming HFC phase-down under the Kigali Amendment. She highlighted initiatives such as the Pakistan Cooling Action Plan, developed in collaboration with international partners, to reduce carbon emissions associated with cooling products.
Conducting the training program on World Environment Day 2024 reflects Pakistan's dedication to practical environmental protection and adherence to the principles of the Montreal Protocol. Romina concluded by reaffirming the government's commitment to climate action, inspired by the Prime Minister's unwavering dedication to environmental preservation and sustainable development.
