To commemorate the 2024 International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched a nationwide awareness campaign in collaboration with the National Ozone Unit (NOU) of Ghana's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 

The day which is commemorated annually on September 16 is themed, “Montreal Protocol: Advancing Climate Action” for the 2024 celebration, with the aim to educate second cycle and tertiary students and public servants about ozone layer depletion and the linkage with climate change.

For years, human activities including the use of electronic appliances like air-conditioning and refrigerators that emit chlorofluorocarbons, have contributed to ozone layer depletion. According to a joint statement by EPA and UNDP Ghana, World Ozone Day is commemorated to raise awareness and educate the public on phasing out ozone-depleting substances as well as substances with global warming potentials. Ghana signing unto the Kigali Amendment is a significant step in addressing both ozone depletion and climate change. This amendment aims to reduce the production and consumption of Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which contribute significantly to global warming. 

Akosua Aninakwa, Project Officer of UNDP Ghana, stated that,“UNDP Ghana is committed to addressing climate change and ozone preservation through joint efforts, ensuring sustainable development to protect future generations”.

At the Eastern Region, workers from the Forestry Commission and students of the Ghana Senior High school (GHANASS) in Koforidua were engaged in public education campaigns to raise awareness about the ozone layer, its importance, and steps to restore it. 

Mr. Joseph Baffoe, Acting Director of the Climate Change and Ozone Unit at the EPA during his address at the Ghana Senior High school (GHANASS) emphasized that, "World Ozone Day celebrates the achievements of the Montreal Protocol and rallies support for national compliance  among the public and key stakeholders”.

The EPA and UNDP have implemented strategies and initiatives to phase out ozone-depleting substances including import restrictions, provision of training and best-standard equipment. These interventions among others aim at helping the ozone layer to recover, protect public health, safeguard ecosystems and mitigate climate change.

Mr. Isaac Kwabena Danso, Assistant Programmes Officer of the Climate Change Unit at the EPA noted that, “While replacing gases that deplete the ozone layer is crucial and progress which has been made in this regard, it's essential to recognize the significant threat  they possess due to their role in global warming and climate change”.

The Montreal Protocol has proven that, collective effort among diverse stakeholders can result in positive outcomes. By working together, we can make a difference and ensure a healthier planet for generations to come.