Islamabad: On the eve of World Ozone Day, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif delivered a compelling message from Islamabad, reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to the global effort to restore the ozone layer, the Earth’s crucial shield against harmful ultraviolet radiation. His statement emphasized the significant progress made under international agreements like the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol.

According to Press Information Department, Prime Minister Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s proactive role since ratifying the Montreal Protocol in 1992, focusing on the nation’s achievements in phasing out ozone-depleting substances. The establishment of a dedicated National Ozone Unit (NOU) in 1996 has been instrumental in overseeing the successful completion of eleven phases of the protocol in collaboration with various stakeholders including Pakistan Customs and the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.

The Prime Minister proudly noted that Pakistan had eliminated the first generation of ozone-depleting substances by 2009 and achieved a 50% reduction in hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) by January 2020. With plans well underway to meet a 67.5% reduction target by 2025, Pakistan is making significant strides toward transitioning to ozone-friendly technologies.

Further emphasizing the country’s environmental dedication, Prime Minister Sharif expressed commitment to the upcoming hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) phase-down under the Kigali Amendment. He underscored the government’s unwavering resolve to continue collaborative climate actions, aligning with this year’s theme, “Montreal Protocol – Advancing Climate Actions.”

As the global community prepares to observe World Ozone Day, the Prime Minister called for continued unity in safeguarding the planet for future generations, advocating for sustained environmental stewardship and sustainable development.