HCFC consumption decreases by 35%

FIJI managed to reduce its hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC) consumption by 35% last year.

The permanent secretary for Environment Ministry, Joshua Wycliffe, revealed this while officially opening the HCFC Phase-out Management Plan (HPMP) Stage II Virtual Stakeholder Consultation for the Refrigeration and Air-conditioning (RAC) sector this week. Mr Wycliffe stated that this has only been possible through the continuous support of the Government stakeholders, enforcement agencies and the RAC sector.

“The overall strategy has been, to facilitate Fiji’s compliance with the phase out target through minimal impact on the RAC industry, economy and the environment.

“The Government has taken steps to implement a combination of interventions such as policies and regulation, investment on technology transfer, training and capacity building, technical assistance, and awareness in view of integrated approach,” Mr Wycliffe told participants.

“The aim is to implement an integrated plan for HCFC reductions to facilitate the market transition to HCFC alternatives while achieving climate benefits through the adoption of climate friendly RAC technologies. Stage II is aimed to strengthen national capacity to limit the supply of HCFCs, prevent new demand for HCFCs and promote the adoption of low GWP and energy-efficient alternative technologies to sustain HCFC phase out.

“As a Small Island States, Fiji is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The Department of Environment strongly supports and remains committed to any initiative that would help mitigate the negative impacts that contribute to climate change. We call for immediate action to reduce emissions.”

“It is vital that the Department of Environment as the regulator of the Ozone Depleting Substances Act 1998 and lead enforcing agency consults you, our stakeholders to achieve complete phase out of HCFC. Stakeholder consultations must take place so that you are aware on the changes that is recommended be made on policies and regulations, the investment on technology transfers and the need for training, technical assistance and awareness,” Mr Wycliffe said.

HCFC Phase-out Management Plan (HPMP) is currently being drafted (to conclude in 2030) and once finalised and endorsed by Cabinet, will be implemented by the Department of Environment.

HPMP Stage I is coming to a conclusion and Fiji is in the process of planning the development of an overarching HPMP Stage II to address remaining consumption post 2020.

The HPMP Stage II will be built on the achievements of HPMP Stage I to assist Fiji to achieve complete phase out of HCFCs under the Montreal Protocol.