The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has urged Ghanaians to adopt ozone-friendly lifestyles by purchasing eco-labelled cooling appliances, using certified technicians, and properly dispose of old electronic devices. 

In a statement to mark World Ozone Day 2025, it explained that the measures were needed to safeguard the atmosphere and support both national and international climate goals.

The day, which is commemorated annually on September 16, was observed on the theme; “40 Years of Ozone Protection: Science and Global Action,” which highlighted the successful partnership between science and policy since the signing of the 1985 Vienna Convention and the 1987 Montreal Protocol.

The EPA  joined the global community to commemorate decades of international action to heal the ozone layer, the earth’s natural shield against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

The EPA said the country had made significant progress by phasing out many ozone-depleting substances (ODS) once used in polyurethane foam manufacturing, refrigeration and air-conditioning.

“These efforts have not only contributed to the healing of the ozone layer but also played a crucial role in national climate action, as many ODS are also potent greenhouse gases,” the statement said.

While celebrating these gains, the Authority stressed that “the work is far from over,” pointing to the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which Ghana had ratified. The amendment calls for the phasing out of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). These do not harm the ozone layer but still are powerful climate-warming gases.

As part of its next steps, the EPA announced the passage of the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Certification Regulations (L.I. 2025).

This regulation requires all refrigeration and air-conditioning technicians nationwide to undergo standardised training and certification to ensure safe installation, maintenance and decommissioning of equipment.

The measure, the statement explained, was designed to prevent the release of harmful refrigerants into the atmosphere and to guarantee full compliance with global environmental obligations.

The Authority, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is also intensifying public education. 

It said nationwide outreach programmes—particularly in schools and public institutions—would continue to raise awareness of the links between ozone protection, climate action and sustainable development.

While acknowledging that much progress had been made, the EPA said emerging challenges required continuous collaboration, innovation and education to sustain the gains achieved under the international agreements.

“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,” the statement added.