Central Asian, Caucasus countries tackle HCFC phase-out

Central Asian and Caucasus countries have an opportunity to leapfrog from HCFCs to climate friendly solutions, according to government representatives responsible for implementing their Montreal Protocol commitments gathered in Chișinău, Moldova on 8-10 November.

The thematic meeting on implementing HCFC Phase-out Management Plans (HPMPs) – also attended by HVAC&R industry representatives – took account of survey findings in discussing the transition towards climate-friendly alternatives to HCFCs.

Inga Podoroghin, State Secretary in Moldova’s Environment Ministry, opened the meeting by hailing the adoption of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol. She argued that the Amendment could prevent 0.5 degree Celsius of warming by the end of the century, representing a major contribution to achieving the goals of the UNFCCC Paris Agreement.

Podoroghin said the Republic of Moldova is supporting the Protocol and called on other countries in the region to promote alternatives to HFCs. Her colleague Svetlana Bolocan stressed the need for feasible legislation to strengthen management of ozone-depleting gases.

Georgi Arzumanyan, of UNDP Moldova warned that increased HFC emissions may put in danger the success of international actions already taken to diminish climate change and argued that the HFC phase-down is a top priority.

UNDP-backed survey findings presented at the event highlighted the contribution that natural refrigerants can make in replacing f-gases.

Attendees also discussed enhancing legislation, adopting safety standards and providing training to companies. Trade associations signed a Memorandum committing them to share information and cooperate on these aspects.

Countries interested in Refrigerant Driving License

Armenia, Kyrgyzstan and Russia announced their interest in the Refrigerant Driving License, a UN initiative with AHRI (Air-conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute) and other trade associations to establish a globally recognised certification schemes for HVAC&R technicians. China has already implemented the certification scheme in its strategy to reduce HCFCs.

Public procurement was also hailed as a useful instrument to boost national policies on the environment, innovation, employment and support offered to SMEs. China included public procurement in its HCFC strategy and was highlighted as an example for other countries looking to promote climate-friendly alternatives.