Completely reducing the use of greenhouse gases

The ozone layer is gradually recovering, and efforts to combat its depletion continue.

Significant progress has been made in preserving the ozone layer. The ozone hole is shrinking, according to Max Fontaine, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development, during the official celebration of World Ozone Layer Protection Day. The meeting occurred at the Agricultural Machinery and Automation Training and Application Center (CFAMMA) in Nanisana.

Madagascar has successfully reduced or even eliminated the use of greenhouse gases that contribute to ozone layer depletion. According to the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, around 99 % of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) have been phased out. Under the commitments of the Montreal Protocol, the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) decreased by 35 % in 2020 and is expected to drop by 67.5 % by 2025, with the goal of complete elimination by 2030.

Madagascar is performing well, having met its targets so far, according to Janny Andrianirina, head of the National Ozone Office at the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development. However, the fight is far from over, and every act of negligence brings new dangers. As a result, the regulation of compounds that affect the ozone layer will be reinforced.

The ministry has received cold chain supplies and equipment from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). These will be sent to a center of excellence to improve the capacity of refrigeration and climate technicians to identify, handle, and replace these ozone-depleting compounds. The goal is to prevent gas leaks into the atmosphere during the maintenance of refrigeration units. At the ports, devices have already been installed to detect these toxic compounds.