Forty years ago, with a sense of urgency, nations united under the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer came together with a shared purpose to address the alarming depletion of the ozone layer, our planet's natural shield against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation and committed to taking decisive measures to shield people and the planet from harmful ultraviolet radiation caused by ozone depletion. That commitment paid off.

Building on advanced scientific evidence, the Montreal Protocol was adopted, leading to the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances, including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which are man-made, ozone-depleting chemicals once widely used in refrigeration, aerosol sprays, foam production, etc.  This global action has set the ozone layer on the path to recovery.

On World Ozone Day 2025, we celebrate this achievement and look forward to another forty years of action. The Montreal Protocol and the Vienna Convention remain crucial for monitoring ozone and ultraviolet radiation levels, as well as phasing out ozone-depleting substances and other harmful chemicals, including hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), under the Kigali Amendment. The ozone treaties have epitomized the concept of moving from Science to Global Action, a commitment that will continue to inspire environmental stewardship worldwide.

This year’s theme, “40 Years of Ozone Protection: From Science and Global Action”, reflects on the remarkable journey of international cooperation in protecting the ozone layer and combating climate change. It also reminds us that global challenges demand sustained and united solutions.

In Ghana, our commitment to this cause has been unwavering. Through the implementation of the Montreal Protocol, we have successfully phased out many harmful chemicals used in polyurethane foam manufacturing, refrigeration, and air conditioning sectors. These efforts have not only contributed to the healing of the ozone layer but have also played a crucial role in our national climate action, as many ozone-depleting substances are also potent greenhouse gases.

While we celebrate this collective achievement, the work is far from over. The Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which Ghana ratified, is a critical next step. It calls for the phasedown of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which, while not ozone-depleting, are powerful climate-warming gases. By controlling HFCs, we are not only protecting the climate but also reinforcing our commitment to a sustainable future.

In a landmark step toward fulfilling our commitments under the Montreal Protocol, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), is proud to announce the passage of the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Certification Regulations (LI 2025) which standardizes training and certification for all RAC technicians and will ensure they possess the necessary skills to install, maintain, decommission equipment’s and handle refrigerants safely and efficiently.

The new regulation, a pivotal component of our broader efforts to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and manage ozone-depleting substances (ODS), will formalize the certification and training of refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) technicians across the country and will ensure a smooth transition and full compliance.

This year's theme, "From Science to Global Action," reminds us of the continuous need for science-based policymaking and public awareness. The EPA is urging all Ghanaians to:

• Choose ozone-friendly products by checking for labels on cooling appliances
•  Engage trained technicians to properly handle and recover refrigerants, preventing their release into the atmosphere.
• Participate in proper waste management and recycling of old electronics and appliances 
• Educate and advocate by raising awareness within our communities about the importance of protecting the ozone layer 

This year, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), continues to raise awareness among communities, public institutions, and students across all educational levels about the importance of protecting the ozone layer and addressing climate change. Nationwide outreach programmes will once again be organized, with special focus on schools and public institutions, to highlight the link between ozone protection, climate action, and sustainable development.

The EPA acknowledges the vital contributions of international organizations, governments, industry, scientists, academia and local communities in reducing ozone-depleting substances and advancing climate action. While much progress has been made, emerging challenges require continuous collaboration, innovation, and education to sustain the gains achieved under the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol.

On this World Ozone Day, we call on all citizens, industries, and institutions in Ghana to join us in this ongoing mission. Let's build on the legacy of the past 40 years to ensure a safer, healthier planet for generations to come. 

Our collective actions, no matter how small, can make a significant difference. Let's continue to be a shining example of a nation that puts science into action for the good of all. 

Protecting the environment is our collective responsibility!!!