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Rwanda to host UN summit on phasing out ozone-depleting gases

Xinhua, September 23, 2016 Adjust font size:

Rwanda will next month host a UN summit that will inject fresh impetus in efforts to phase out gases that deplete the ozone layer, the UN Environment Program (UNEP) announced on Friday.

UNEP said in a statement issued in Nairobi that representatives from 197 countries that are party to the Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the ozone layer will attend the Oct. 10-14 Kigali meeting.

"Parties to the Montreal Protocol will meet in Kigali, Rwanda in a bid to reach an important agreement that could prevent a global temperature rise of up to 0.5 degrees by the end of this century while continuing to protect the ozone layer," read the statement.

The UN member states in 1987 ratified the Montreal Protocol to revitalize the momentum toward phasing out production of chemicals that harmed the ozone layer.

Since it came into force in 1989, the protocol has undergone several amendments in line with evolving geopolitical and economic dynamics.

Ozone depleting substances that are targeted for elimination include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydro fluorocarbons (HFCs) that are widely used in refrigeration and air conditioning.

The statement indicated the Kigali meeting will discuss amendments to the Montreal Protocol to support phasing out or replacement of ozone depleting substances.

It added the representatives are expected to reach a consensus on curbing production and use of substances that are detrimental to the health of the ozone layer. Endit