By Eliza Kukutu
World Ozone Day
By Eliza Kukutu
The Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) yesterday joined countries around the world in commemorating World Ozone Day.
The Ministry participated in the National Trade Fair as an exhibitor, providing information and raising public awareness about its work and the importance of protecting the ozone layer.
As part of the commemoration, the Ministry conducted awareness talks and quizzes for visitors to its booth at the SINU Village.
Speaking to SIBC News, Senior Energy Officer Charles Faitadi said the activities were aimed at educating the public about the ozone layer and its importance.
“Members of the public who visited our booth were asked questions relating to the ozone layer and were rewarded with prizes for their participation.
“We particularly encouraged students to take part because it is important that they understand the significance of the ozone layer and why it must be protected,” he said.
World Ozone Day is observed annually on September 16 to commemorate the signing of the Montreal Protocol in 1987.
The Montreal Protocol is an international treaty designed to protect the Earth’s ozone layer by phasing out the production and use of ozone-depleting substances.
Solomon Islands is a party to the Protocol.
This year’s theme, “Global Action for a Cooler Planet,” highlights the importance of protecting the ozone layer while promoting sustainable solutions to address climate change.
Mr. Faitadi said commemorating World Ozone Day demonstrates Solomon Islands’ commitment to the Montreal Protocol and its efforts to protect the environment.
“The ozone layer acts like an umbrella, protecting us from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet radiation. Commemorating this day reminds us of the importance of properly handling, storing and disposing of harmful gases such as CFCs and HFCs. Continued depletion of the ozone layer can have serious impacts on our environment and contribute to climate change,” he said.
Solomon Islands officially acceded to the Montreal Protocol on 17 June 1993. As part of its commitment to implementing the treaty, the country established the National Ozone Unit within MMERE. The Unit is responsible for controlling, monitoring and phasing out ozone-depleting substances nationwide.
The National Ozone Unit also serves as Solomon Islands’ official focal point for implementing the obligations and requirements of the Montreal Protocol.
ENDS//
