Distribution of Equipment to the Plant Quarantine Department

The National Ozone Unit has provided assistance to the Plant Quarantine Department through the provision of safety equipment and gas monitoring units. These will be used by the officers during inspection of fumigated containers. Methyl Bromide is a fumigant which is ozone depleting and controlled by the Montreal Protocol. Currently work in being done to phase out the use of this substance by encouraging the use of suitable alternatives.

 

Dr. Gowrie National Ozone Officer presents Mr. Loutan of the Plant Quarantine Department with safety equipment. Looking on are fellow Plant Quarantine officers and Ms. Neera Singh National Ozone Assistant

Twenty-Fifth Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (MOP 25)

The Twenty-Fifth Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (MOP 25) took place in Bangkok, Thailand, from 21-25 October 2013. Over 500 participants attended the joint meeting, representing governments, UN agencies, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, academia, industry, and the agricultural sector.

MOP 25 opened with a preparatory segment from Monday to Wednesday that addressed the COP’s substantive agenda items and related draft decisions. This was followed by a high-level segment, which opened on Wednesday evening and continued Thursday and Friday and adopted the decisions forwarded to it by the preparatory segment. As the preparatory segment did not conclude its work on a number of contentious issues by Wednesday, it reconvened several times during the high-level segment to address outstanding issues, including the replenishment of the Multilateral Fund (MLF).

The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago was represented at the Twenty Fifth Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol by Dr. Marissa Gowrie Deputy Manager, Environmental Policy and Planning Division / National Ozone Officer, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.

Dr. Gowrie successfully co-chaired the Contact Group on the Terms of Replenishment of the Multi Lateral Fund. Below is a photo of Dr. Gowrie participating in the Meeting.

The National Ozone Unit – Cancer Awareness Month Edufest at National Academy for the Performing Arts

The National Ozone Unit booth at the Cancer Awareness Edufest focused on raising awareness about the effects of Ultraviolet Radiation on the skin and Skin Cancer.  There were a number of primary and secondary school students and their teachers for the two day event.  Here are some pictures from the Edufest! 

Can skin cancer be prevented?

The best ways to lower the risk of skin cancer is to reduce exposure to intense sunlight.  In the Caribbean the outdoors is the place for work, exercise and relaxation.  Here are some ways to be sun safe when heading outdoors:

 

ü  Avoid direct exposure to the sun between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m when the sun is highest in the sky.

ü  Seek shade, especially in the middle of the day when the sun’s rays are strongest.

ü  Cover up with protective clothing to guard as much skin as possible when you are out in the sun. Choose comfortable clothes made of tightly woven fabrics that you cannot see through when held up to a light.

ü  Use sunscreen and lip balm with broad spectrum protection and a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher even on hazy or overcast days.  Apply a generous amount of sunscreen  to unprotected skin at least 30 minutes before outdoor activities and reapply every 2 hours and after swimming, toweling dry, or sweating.

ü  Cover your head with a wide-brimmed hat, shading your face, ears, and neck. If you choose a baseball cap, remember to protect your ears and neck with sunscreen.

ü  Wear sunglasses with100% UVA and UVB absorption to provide optimal protection for the eyes and the surrounding skin.

ü  Sunscreen doesn’t protect from all UV rays, so don’t use sunscreen as a way to stay out in the sun longer

ü  Follow these practices to protect your skin even on cloudy or overcast days. UV rays travel through clouds.

ü  Avoid other sources of UV light.  UV lights/lamps are dangerous. They also damage your skin.

 

 

Train the Trainer in Hydrocarbons Sucessfully Completed

The train the trainers session for selected agencies and academia was successfully completed in October 2013. Dr. Daniel Colbourne a well known international expert in hydrocarbons conducted the training to 15 local participants from the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Industry Association, School of Business and Computer Science, Metal Industries Limited, Flavorite Foods Ltd., and the School of Practical Air Conditioning . Participants underwent a week of rigorous training including exposure to the science and properties of hydrocarbons, safe handling, worldwide trends in usage, and manipulation strategies. The training included a practical component. The pictures below show the participants in the training session, the practical component and a site visit to Flavorite Foods Ltd. to view their HC systems, the only found locally to date.

THE JOINT MEETING OF THE OZONACTION NETWORKS OF MEXICO, CENTRAL AMERICA, SOUTH AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN HELD IN JAMAICA OCTOBER 1-4, 2013

The United Nations Environment Programme Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (UNEP ROLAC) along with the Government of Jamaica hosted the Joint Meeting of the OzonAction Networks of Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean, during the period October 1-4 in Kingston Jamaica.  Delegations from Antigua, Bahamas, Belize, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, Ecuador, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay and Venezuela were in attendance. The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago was represented by Ms. Neera Singh, Ozone Assistant, Environmental Policy and Planning Division of the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.

The Meeting focused on, among other things, the issues relating to the 33^rd Meeting of the Open Ended Working Group and Montreal Protocol 24^th Meeting of Parties (MOP), the proposal for the amendment to the Montreal Protocol to include Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) as a controlled substance and the review of the decisions of the 70^th Meeting of the Executive Committee of the Multilateral Fund (MLF).

The status of online reporting of the Country Programme data to the Multilateral Fund and recommendations were given to countries on the impact of the control measures in order to continue the phase-out of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and meet the targets for reduction in consumption by 2015.

Discussions were centered on the challenges faced by countries in the region in starting their freeze on imports and implementing their legislation for the HPMPs including HCFC and Methyl Bromide phase out in particular.  Presentations highlighted the issue of Energy Efficiency Co-benefits and non-ODS alternatives, Energy Service companies and their roles, resource mobilization, climate benefits and lessons learnt in the phase out of Methyl Bromide in the region. 

Issues of importance to Trinidad and Tobago included licensing and certification of technicians, legislation, destruction technologies, illegal trade of ODS, climate co-benefits, energy efficiency and methyl bromide alternatives.

 

Ms. Neera Singh, National Ozone Assistant Trinidad and Tobago at the Meeting

The Caribbean Ozone Officers Network

Twenty Questions and Answers about the Ozone Layer

Here are some commonly asked questions about the ozone layer, explained according to the Scientific Assessment Panels.........
Twenty Questions and Answers about the Ozone Layer

Revision of Import and Export Negative Lists

The Import and Export Negative Lists have been revised. The Import Negative List now encompasses a more comprehensive list of refrigerants and other ozone depleting substances (ODS). All these substances have also been added to the Export Negative List. Licenses from the Ministry of Trade and Industry are therefore needed for both the import AND export of these commodities.

>> Click the links below to view the amendments to the import and export negative lists:

• Legal Notice No. 152 of 2013 exports ODS
• Legal Notice No. 153 of 2013 imports ODS

Comparative Table of Physical Properties of R 22, R 134a and Hydrocarbon Refrigerant

HYDROCARBON FACTSHEET

GENERAL PROPERTIES OF HYDROCARBON REFRIGERANTS

· Hydrocarbon Refrigerants are Safe and Non-toxic.

· Hydrocarbon Refrigerants are Non-Corrosive.

· Hydrocarbon Refrigerants are Environmentally Friendly.  They are Non-Ozone  Depleting and has negligible Global Warming Potential.

· Hydrocarbon Refrigerants are made from Natural Organic material.

· Hydrocarbon Refrigerants are fully compatible with R12, R134a and R-22 lubricants.

· Hydrocarbon Refrigerants are highly efficient, reducing fuel consumption when used in auto A/C, quicker temperature drop in vehicle compartment and drastic reduction in operating head pressure which results in longer A/C components life

 

· Hydrocarbon Refrigerants are flammable.

· Hydrocarbon Refrigerants are safe to use with proper handling.

· Hydrocarbon Refrigerants have an AUTO IGNITION point of 1585 F, which is higher than R134a at    1328 F.

· Hydrocarbon Refrigerant molecules are larger (lower density) than R12 and R134a, therefore, smaller charge per application.

· Hydrocarbon Refrigerants does not become caustic if contaminated with moisture or oxygen.

 

Hydrocarbon Refrigerant atmospheric life is less than one year, compare with  R12, 130years and R134a 16 years.

· Hydrocarbon  Refrigerants have been in use since 1867, and in conjunction with ammonia, were the most widely used refrigerants before the introduction of CFCs in the 1930s.

· Hydrocarbon Refrigerants are now available in Trinidad and Tobago.

· They have low viscosity and high thermal conductivity that allow good performance of the system

· They possess high chemical stability

 

Hydrocarbon Refrigerant Types

 

Pure Isobutane—R-600a

It is a single component HC        refrigerant with a normal boiling point of 11.8 °C. This refrigerant, in spite of having sub-atmospheric pressure at suction, has been widely considered as one of the practical solutions for new domestic refrigerator technology.

Its volumetric refrigeration capacity is lower than CFC-12.  The R-600a   compressor requires a greatly    increased swept volume to give the same capacity

It has very good energy efficiency.  Also, the R-600a systems are    quieter than other systems

 

HC Blends (R-290/R-600a)

Propane-Isobutane Mixture

These refrigerants can be used with             compressors designed for CFC-12 and   R-22 with only minor changes needed to electrically components to maintain safety. 

The mixture possesses very high latent heat of vaporization and low density.  The charge   volumes are approximately 40% that of  CFC-12.

They operate with a lower compression ratio, thus improving the operation of the             compressor.

The propane-isobutane mixture is a zeotropic blend.  The temperature glide is around 8°C.

 

FLAMMABILITY

Hydrocarbons are flammable and      ignition sources have to be avoided and/or eliminated.

Lower Flammability Limit (LFL) and Upper Flammability Limit (UFL) of   Hydrocarbon Refrigerants:

The LFL for R-600a is 1.85% & HC Blend is 1.95% - approximately 35g/m³  of air

The UFL for R-600a is 8.5% and HC Blend is 9.1% - approximately 165g/m³  of air.

For example, if there is less than 1.95% of HC blend in air, then there is        insufficient fuel from the refrigerant for combustion.  If there is more than 9.1%, there is insufficient oxygen form the air for combustion.

It is virtually impossible for combustion to occur inside a completely and correctly charged refrigeration cycle as there will be insufficient air

 

General Safety Consideration

 

 

The Following Actions are Strongly  Recommended or Mandatory:

· Prohibit  smoking within the     charging area

· Earth all fixed metal objects in the area

· Use flame proof motors for all new installations

· Introduce intrinsically safe devices with barrier protection

· Continuous monitoring of the     environment for explosive/flammable vapours

· Used only sealed or non-sparking electrical components

· Leak test as part of routine  maintenance

· Replace electrical components with solid state

· Re-locate electrical components away from the refrigeration circuit

· Install leak detection alarms/systems

· Pressure test, leak test and evacuate the system before brazing or   unbrazing joints

· Charge appliances in a well ventilated area which must be at least 2 metres away from ignition sources

· Label the equipment clearly to show that the refrigerant is hydrocarbon, the amount and that it is flammable

· Have  a fire extinguisher (dry powder type) available at all times

 

Transportation and Storage of Hydrocarbon Refrigerant

 

 

 

Hydrocarbon refrigerant should be transported and stored in the same way as other flammable gases. It is best to store these gases as follows;

· In a secure locked compound    protected from weather and direct sunlight

· The cylinder valves should be closed and capped

· The storeroom should be well   ventilated (ventilator fan) and sealed off

· A flammable gas alarm must be fitted next to the cylinder or in the storage area.

· Never heat cylinders or leave   exposed in the sun

· Transport cylinders in open       vehicles, in an upright stable     position

· Do not smoke where hydrocarbons are stored

· Have in place dry powder type fire extinguishers

· Do not use switches within 2     meters of charging area.

· Wear gloves, goggles and clothing which cover the body

 

This information and adapted from  (1) working safely with hydrocarbons and (2) the Cuban experience (3) National Ozone Unit—Grenada

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The National Ozone Unit at Work

Message by the Minister of the Environment and Water Resources

International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 2013

“A healthy atmosphere, the future we want”

 

This year the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) has chosen the theme “A healthy atmosphere, the future we want” to mark the global observance of the International Day for the Protection of the Ozone Layer, celebrated annually on 16^th September.   The Montreal Protocol has been hailed as a prime example of successful international cooperation to protect the global commons, since in addition to protecting the ozone layer, the Montreal Protocol also continues to protect the global climate as all ozone depleting substances also contribute to global warming.

Political commitment by all Governments of the world, including Trinidad and Tobago have been fundamental to the milestones achieved under the Protocol which have in turn generated trust and confidence to meet future challenges such as the phasing out of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and the introduction of ozone and climate friendly alternatives such as hydrocarbon (HCs) in the air conditioning and refrigeration sector.

As we join with other nations to celebrate this occasion, let us take a moment to reflect on the global efforts made thus far to preserve, protect and rehabilitate the ozone layer.  Let us take this opportunity also to reflect on the efforts made by Trinidad and Tobago toward saving this Ultraviolet (UV) shield which is approximately 3-5 mm thick and found in the stratosphere. 

Evidence of a threat to the ozone layer was discovered by scientists in the 1970s. That discovery was the impetus for the development of the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer and the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.  This Protocol is an international agreement under which countries worldwide have committed to phase out Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS), and to replace these damaging chemicals with ozone-friendly substances and products. Trinidad and Tobago acceded to the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer on August 28, 1989, and operates under paragraph 1 of Article V, which refers specifically to developing countries. Since that time Trinidad and Tobago has ratified all subsequent amendments to the Protocol.

Some of the ozone depleting chemicals which are targeted by the Montreal Protocol includes: chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) found in the air conditioning, refrigeration and foam sector; halons, a fire suppressant; methyl chloroform, a solvent; and methyl , a fumigant as well as products using these chemicals or any blends of these chemicals.  The ‘ozone hole’, was created by the destruction of ozone molecules from the use of these ozone depleting substances.  As a result of the formation of the “ozone hole” humans as well as entire ecosystems can be severely affected.  Indeed, research has shown that excessive exposure to ultra-violet radiation is harmful to all life forms, from microscopic plants found in the ocean, to farm animals and human beings, all are at risk. The effects on humans are manifested through increasing incidences of eye-cataracts, non-melanoma skin cancers, damage to genetic DNA and suppression of the efficiency of the immune system.

A quicker phase out of all ODSs and the replacement of these by alternatives and substitutes will help in the restoration of the ozone layer.  This ozone layer protects us from harmful UV rays, while still allowing the warmth of the sun into the earth’s atmosphere. Satellite remote sensing of ozone has played a large part in verifying ozone depletion by providing researchers with a relatively long-term and continual picture of the global ozone environment. If we stop all emissions of ODS today, it would still take many years for the ozone layer to repair itself due to the long lifespan of the ODSs some exceeding 100 years depending on the type. Hence for the sake of future generations, we need to stop adding to the vast amounts of ozone depleting substances already found in the atmosphere.  

Arresting the deterioration of, and ultimately restoring, the ozone layer to its original state is one of the major environmental challenges facing the global community. The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago remains committed to fulfilling our obligations under the Montreal Protocol and will continue to do our part to help save the ozone layer.

Some of the special measures already taken by Trinidad and Tobago as part of the phase-out process include:

·         Implementation of a series of Public Awareness Programmes

·         Implementation of a series of training programmes in Good Refrigeration Practices for Trainers and Technicians in the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Industry

·         Implementation of a freeze and the introduction of a quota system on the importation of ODS since July 1, 1999

·         Introduction of an exporting licensing system for all ODS and refrigerant introduced in 2013

·         Imposing restrictions on the importation and exportation of equipment requiring the use of ODS; and most notably;

·         The ban of imports of CFCs and halons into Trinidad and Tobago since December 31^st 2007

It is to be noted however that our phase out efforts are not over, and there are more ozone depleting substances still to be phased out by this country. One such ODS is hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC). The phase out of this substance began on January 1, 2013.  The phase out of methyl bromide is also on the agenda and will be phased out completely for non quarantine and pre shipment uses by 2015.

The Ministry in collaboration with the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards has also recently collaborated to develop new labelling requirement for refrigerant imports. Additionally there is also now the introduction of the ozone and climate friendly refrigerant – hydrocarbon onto the local market, which has had great success in other Parties to the Montreal Protocol. IN this regard the Ministry is spearheading several training programmes for technicians in the air conditioning and refrigeration industry free of charge to sensitize them on this new refrigerant.

As we reflect on our achievements under the Montreal Protocol, we should consider this year’s theme, which reinforces the fact that we must work together as partners in this global community to achieve benefits which include a healthy lifestyle, an aspiration common to all mankind. It is to be noted that Trinidad and Tobago’s adherence to the Protocol is also consistent with this Government’s environmental agenda.  We must acknowledge that there is still much to be done to restore the ozone layer, and all citizens should pledge to do their part to help take some action no matter how small.

As citizens of Trinidad and Tobago and of the larger global community, we must all strive to be ozone friendly.  Being ozone friendly means taking individual action to reduce and eliminate impacts on the stratospheric ozone layer caused by the products that we buy, the appliances and equipment that our households or businesses use, or the manufacturing process used by our companies.  

We must also take the necessary steps to protect ourselves from the harmful ultra violet rays emitted by the sun especially in a tropical island such as ours. Failure to do this may result in such things as skin cancer, eye cataracts, premature wrinkling of the skin and weakening of the immune system. In fact, the Trinidad and Tobago National Cancer Registry has previously indicated that during the ten year period 1995-2005, 70.6% of all melanoma cases was found in the skin, with 66.7% of all melanoma deaths also being found in the skin. In addition, the Registry notes that the age groups most vulnerable to skin cancer are individuals of age 35-39 years and 75-79 years.

All citizens can protect themselves from the harmful rays of the sun by using umbrellas/parasols, long sleeved clothing, caps with brims, sunglasses and sun block with UV protection.  

I challenge each of you to do your part in the global effort to save the ozone layer and thereby minimize the health-related effects of ozone depletion.  We owe it to this and future generations to protect and preserve this precious natural shield. Each citizen of our nation and of our planet needs to commit to take action now.  Remember, when it comes to saving the environment, every action counts!