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From January 1, the phase-out process for hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) will begin. And, an official from the Ministry of Environment is urging members of the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (RAC) sector, such as technicians, importers and retailers, to get the necessary training in the safe handling and use of all refrigerant gases on the market.

According to the official, the first part of the phase-out process will see Barbados implementing a quota system for the importation of HCFCs at the national baseline level. There will then be a subsequent 10 per cent reduction in the amount allowed for importation by 2015; a 35 per cent reduction by 2020; 67.5 per cent by 2025, and the complete phase-out of the importation of this gas by 2030.

She pointed out that the phase-out is in keeping with Barbados’ obligations under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.?? As a signatory to the Protocol, Barbados is required to be a part of the global effort to protect the ozone layer by eliminating the use of harmful ozone depleting substances.

The official said Barbados’ Hydrochlorofluorocarbon Phase-Out Management Plan (HPMP) will define the schedule of national activities to be undertaken, as this country moves towards the global phase-out of HCFC usage, and the transition towards the use of non-ozone depleting, climate friendly, and energy efficient alternatives in the RAC sector.

julia.rawlins-bentham@barbados.gov.bb

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