Nigeria is participating in the 36th Meeting of the Parties (MOP36) to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, which commenced from October 28, 2024, through to November 1, 2024, in Bangkok, Thailand.
The Montreal Protocol is a landmark Global Treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and very powerful greenhouse gases.
The ongoing MOP36 meeting is crucial as it will address the latest scientific findings, policy developments, and strategies to further reduce ODS and fluorinated Greenhouse Gases (F-gases), which are potent contributors to global warming. There are nearly 100 man-made chemicals referred to as ODS contained in refrigerators and air-conditioners production and consumption.
The MOP36 meeting comes at a critical time when the world is grappling with the dual challenges of ozone layer depletion and climate change. The meeting has provided a platform for parties to review progress, share best practices, and adopt new measures to accelerate the phase-out of harmful substances. This is essential for safeguarding both the environment and public health, as well as for achieving global climate goals.
“As delegates gather in Bangkok for the 36th Meeting of Parties to the Montreal Protocol, the need for Nigerian Government to act faster and go further in our climate ambitions at a time that the state of climate is now critical, with year 2023 as the hottest year in record,” said Dr. Leslie Adogame, Executive Director, SRADev Nigeria.
SRADev Nigeria’s participation in MOP36 (NGO Observer) is considered a major kick-off activity in the one-year project on “Promoting Fast Action to Reduce Emissions of Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases and Ozone Depleting Substances in Nigeria”, recently launched in Abuja.
The project aims to support the Nigerian Government to, mitigate the environmental impact of these substances through awareness campaigns, policy advocacy, and the promotion of sustainable alternatives.
The project, which officially started on October 1, 2024, is being funded by the Environmental Investigation Agency UK (EIA, UK), an international non-governmental organisation (NGO) established in 1984 in the United Kingdom.
Looking ahead, SRADev Nigeria is committed to expanding the impact of its project with the following goals:
- Increase Emission Reductions: Advocacy support to achieve a 25% reduction in fluorinated greenhouse gas emissions and Nitrous oxide gases by 2027.
- Broaden Community Outreach: Expand educational programmes to reach an additional 10,000 individuals, focusing on youth and women to ensure inclusive participation.
- Enhance Policy Advocacy: Work closely with policymakers to implement stricter regulations and promote the adoption of sustainable technologies.
- Foster Innovation: Support research and development of alternative substances and technologies that are environmentally friendly and economically viable.
SRADev Nigeria has in the past played similar but vital roles in the implementation of international multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs). This ensures that the voices of local communities are heard and that grassroots perspectives are integrated into global policies. It continues to bring on-the-ground experience and innovative solutions that are crucial for the successful implementation of MEAs.
Participation in MOP36 therefore, underscores our commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development.
“We believe that by engaging with global experts and sharing our experiences, we can contribute significantly to the global efforts to protect the ozone layer and combat climate change.” “This meeting is a pivotal moment for us to strengthen our programme strategies and partnerships, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable future for Nigeria and the world”, said Mr. Jeremiah Ato, Technical and Policy Officer, SRADev Nigeria.
As a foremost NGO group on chemical and wastes clusters, SRADev Nigeria disclosed that its involvement in MOP36 will enable it to:
- Engage with Global Experts: Gain insights from leading scientists and policymakers on the latest advancements and strategies for ODS and F-gas reduction in Nigeria.
- Share our Experiences: Present our project outcomes and challenges, contributing to the global dialogue on effective mitigation strategies.
- Strengthen Partnerships: Forge new collaborations with international stakeholders to enhance our efforts in Nigeria.
“At MoP36, all Parties should embody the spirit of the Montreal Protocol once again and to demonstrate it truly is the world’s most successful environmental treaty,” said Clare Perry, Climate Campaigner Leader, Environmental Investigation Agency, UK.
