National Ozone Day

“Keep Cool and Carry On” The Montreal Protocol”

The theme chosen for this year is “Keep cool and Carry on” the Montreal Protocol. The theme has two connotations – that our work of protecting the ozone layer also protects climate and that the Montreal Protocol is a “cool” treaty, as exemplified by its outstanding achievements as the world’s most-successful international convention. As a result of this success the ozone layer is healing and will return to 1980 levels by mid-century.

The work under the Montreal Protocol has also contributed significantly to the fight against global warming and more so through the Kigali Amendment, which enters into force on 1 January 2019. This amendment is expected to avoid up to 0.5°C of global warming by the end of the century, while continuing to protect the ozone layer.

The event will be led by Rev. Mariota Siaea of the Methodist Church, Matafele; followed by the opening statement by the Hon. Fiame Naomi Mataafa, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

To mark Samoa’s commitment to the fight against global warming the Implementation of the Kigali Amendment to phase down Hydrofluorocarbons will be officially launched during the opening ceremony. In addition the new name and logo for the Refrigeration and Air conditioning (RAC) Association will also be declared to highlight the importance of collaboration between the Government and the private Sector in promoting good RAC practices.

All stakeholders, Colleges and the general public are invited to join the celebration. There will be demonstrations of good refrigeration and air conditioning practices and information display booths for awareness of products and services from various Ministries. The Ministry is also organising competitive activities for students and the RACAS logo competition winners will also be announced on the day.

The event aims to encourage all that the responsibility to protect the ozone layer and climate doesn’t lie with the Government alone. Individuals can do their part by using their refrigerators, air conditioners and other equipment responsibly. By properly using, servicing and disposing of these appliances, you can minimize energy use and emissions, and save money.

The Government acknowledges the assistance of the United Nations Environment and the Multilateral Fund in making this event possible.