Chennai, India, 24 – 27 September 2024 – UNEP’s OzonAction Asia-Pacific and West Asia Compliance Assistance Programme (CAP) teams organized the Joint Network Meeting of South Asia and West Asia National Ozone Officers. In the heart of Chennai, National Ozone Officers (NOOs) from the South Asia and West Asia regional networks convened for pivotal meetings to strengthen regional collaboration and accelerate the phase-out of harmful ozone-depleting substances and the phase-down of their climate-harming substitutes such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), aimed at addressing the pressing challenges of climate change, under the umbrella of the Montreal Protocol and its Kigali Amendment. The Joint Network Meeting held on 24 – 25 September 2024, provided a platform for in-depth discussions and knowledge sharing. Participants delved into the latest developments in the Montreal Protocol, exploring updates on recent meetings, the integration of good servicing practices into education and training systems, advancements in conversion projects and servicing infrastructure, and sector-specific technology updates. The meeting was attended by a total of 40 participants (23 Male/17 Female). A key focus of the meeting was the development and implementation of Kigali HFC Implementation Plans. Countries shared experiences and best practices related to phasing down HFCs, a potent greenhouse gas. Participants also discussed strategies for incorporating gender considerations into project design, ensuring that climate action benefits all segments of society. “Organization of network meetings for the National Ozone Officers is an excellent initiative of UNEP OzonAction. Such meetings provide a platform for the Ozone Officers from Article-5 countries to learn from each other, brainstorm innovative regional solutions, and enhance regional co-operation in implementation of the Montreal Protocol including the Kigali Amendment,” said Ms. Rajasree Ray, Economic Adviser, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the Government of India. The National Ozone Unit of India hosted a productive panel discussion focusing on various refrigeration sectors, including industrial, commercial, and transport refrigeration. Participants explored recent developments in policies, technologies, and environmentally friendly alternatives with lower global warming potential. Moreover, the NOOs worked together to plan effective public awareness and outreach campaigns. They were inspired to develop strategies that would be relevant and successful in their own countries. "The Joint Network Meeting in Chennai served as a catalyst for regional cooperation under the Montreal Protocol. By sharing knowledge, best practices, and exploring innovative solutions, we are taking a significant step towards achieving the complete phase-out of ozone-depleting substances (ODSs) and initiating the phase-down of HFCs, thereby addressing the pressing challenges of climate change," said Mr. Khaled Klaly, Montreal Protocol Regional Coordinator, West Asia. The NOOs also attended a site visit to the Daikin Air-conditioning India Pvt Ltd manufacturing facility in Sri City, Andhra Pradesh. They learned a lot from the visit, gaining insights into Daikin's advanced manufacturing processes, commitment to sustainability, and plans for future growth. This state-of-the-art facility is Daikin's third unit in India and a strategic investment for the company. With an annual capacity of 1.5 million AC units, as well as compressors, controller boards, and other spare parts, it is the largest of Daikin's three Indian facilities. Aligned with Daikin's commitment to achieving Net Zero CO2 emissions by 2050, the company will develop climate-friendly ACs for export markets. Resource partners who went above and beyond were the Multilateral Fund Secretariat, Ozone Secretariat, UNDP, UNIDO, World Bank, GIZ, Indian Institute of Technology, and guest speakers and technical experts. Their active participation, thoughtful contributions, and collaborative spirit created a truly special environment for sharing insights and knowledge to help the countries foster collaboration and resource sharing and effectively implement the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali Amendment. The meeting was organized by UNEP OzonAction CAP, Asia and the Pacific Office and West Asia Office, in partnership with the Government of India as part of its approved 2024 Work Programme under the Multilateral Fund. For more information: Ms Elisa Rim Montreal Protocol Regional Coordinator a.i. South Asia UNEP CAP, Asia and the Pacific Office Mr. Khaled Klaly Montreal Protocol Regional Coordinator, West Asia UNEP CAP, West Asia Office
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