By HeapNews
As the world commemorates the 40th anniversary of the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer, Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADeV Nigeria) has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to tackle ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases) in Nigeria.
The project, titled “Promoting Fast Action to Reduce Emissions of Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases and Ozone-Depleting Substances in Nigeria,” is set to run from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. Backed by the Environmental Investigation Agency, UK (EIA UK), the initiative aims to bridge policy and technological gaps in the fight against harmful emissions contributing to global warming and ozone depletion.
Global Commitments, Local Action
The Vienna Convention of 1985 laid the foundation for international cooperation on ozone protection, leading to the Montreal Protocol in 1987—one of the world’s most successful environmental treaties. Over the years, the protocol has helped restore the ozone layer and curb climate change by phasing out ODS. Nigeria, a signatory to both the Montreal Protocol and its Kigali Amendment, has made significant strides in reducing hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) emissions but still faces implementation challenges.
Dr. Leslie Adogame, Executive Director of SRADeV Nigeria, underscored the importance of sustaining the country’s efforts.
“Nigeria has made significant progress in implementing the Montreal Protocol, but there is still a lot of work to be done. Our initiative will assess the country’s progress, identify gaps, and propose necessary actions to enhance environmental sustainability,” he said.
The initiative will engage key national stakeholders, including the National Ozone Office (NOO), the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), industry groups such as the Nigerian Association of Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Practitioners (NARAP), and development partners like the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
Public Awareness and Capacity Building
A key component of the project is public education. According to Mr. Jeremiah Ato, Policy and Technical Officer at SRADeV Nigeria, many Nigerians remain unaware of the environmental impact of refrigerants used in homes and businesses.
“Refrigerants are used in nearly every household and commercial sector, yet most Nigerians are unaware of their environmental impact. This highlights the urgent need for capacity building and widespread public awareness,” he said.
To formally launch the project, an inception workshop is scheduled for April 10, 2025, bringing together policymakers, regulatory agencies, and industry leaders. SRADeV Nigeria will roll out capacity-building programs, stakeholder engagements, and awareness campaigns to enhance knowledge and compliance.
Mr. Victor Fabumi, Programme Manager at SRADeV Nigeria, emphasized the environmental risks posed by F-gases and ODS.
“F-gases have an exceptionally high Global Warming Potential (GWP) and significantly contribute to rising global temperatures, exacerbating climate change. Likewise, ODS accelerate global warming and deplete the ozone layer. By tackling these emissions, SRADeV aims to play a key role in combating climate change,” he said.
As the world reflects on four decades of progress in ozone protection, SRADeV Nigeria’s initiative reinforces the country’s commitment to global environmental goals. The organization is calling on government agencies, industry players, and the public to support its efforts in building a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Nigeria.