DM issues guidelines on ozone depleting substances

Ahmed Abdulla Al Jassmi, Head of Environmental Planning & Studies Section of Environment Department at Dubai Municipality said the guideline includes the management, control and regulatory systems required by the companies to obtain prior approval from Ministry of Environment and Dubai Municipality for the importation of controlled substances to the Emirate of Dubai. The Port and Customs Authority likewise mandated to strictly control the release of ozone depleting substances (ODS) shipments from any port of entry.

“All developed (i.e., non-Article 5) countries are subject to caps on their consumption and production of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), according to the terms of the Montreal Protocol and its amendments. Under the Montreal Protocol, the U.S. and other developed nations must achieve a certain percentage of progress towards the total phase-out of production and consumption of HCFCs, by certain dates,” Al Jassmi said.

“Environment Department had issued a circular in July 2008 requiring owners or operators of any stationary, transport air-conditioning or refrigeration companies including service providers to implement adequate equipment maintenance and prevent the venting of refrigerants and use of alternative substances,” he added.

Strict entry of HCFCs through issuing clearance for the importation of this substances, continuous data collection, strategy development and inspection of establishments are very important for achieving HCFC phase-out in a systematic manner that is in line with the UAE’s commitments under the Protocol. Therefore, the refrigeration, air-conditioning and other relevant sectors need to assist in providing data and other inputs sought by Municipality in this process.

The Environment Department would also organizes periodic dialogues with relevant agencies, specifically traders and suppliers of HCFCs, including the users in refrigeration and air-conditioning sector to inform them so that to become aware of changes in implementation and strategy for HCFC phase-out in Dubai.

The sustainable living is both ecologically sound and economically beneficial. Moving early towards the phase-out in the use of HCFCs over the next decade, not only helps protect the beautiful tropical environment and lures tourists, but also positions Dubai as a strong eco-tourist destination.