Cuba Commemorates International Day of the Ozone Layer

Cuba joins the commemoration this September 16th of the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. Which celebrates the signing of the Montreal Protocol in 1987, considered the most successful global environmental agreement.

The so-called Ozone Layer is a very fragile layer of gas that protects life on the planet from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays and is endangered by the years-long use of certain chemicals, including potent greenhouse gases.

Cuba fulfills its national and international commitments related to the protection of the Ozone Layer. It signed the Montreal Protocol in 1992 and has ratified all its amendments. In line with this commitment, the elimination of CFCs, hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). And now hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) have been met and will continue until 2045.

Among the most significant actions implemented by the country to date, in line with its international commitments, are the elimination of methyl bromide, carbon tetrachloride, methyl chloroform, halons, and other ozone-depleting substances (ODS).

The country has introduced safer alternatives to replace ODS. Such as natural refrigerants like hydrocarbons, ammonia, and CO2. As part of projects that do not damage the ozone layer or cause global warming.

Ozone layer protection is integrated into Cuba’s environmental policies. Therefore, along with climate change mitigation. It has a relevant role within the Life Task of the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Environment (Citma in the Spanish acronym).

The Ozone Technical Unit (OTOZ) of Cubaenergy, part of the Nuclear Energy and Advanced Technologies Agency (Aenta). Contributes to the sustainable development goals through its management and outreach. Training, a gender perspective, and technological input are some of the aforementioned actions.

The Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which entered into force on January 1st, 2019. When Cuba deposited its instrument of ratification, pursues the goal of gradually reducing the production and consumption of HFCs, gases that contribute to global warming.

Radio Angulo
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