Trinidad and Tobago National Ozone Unit

Sunday 15 September 2024

Message from the National Ozone Unit of Trinidad and Tobago on World Ozone Day 2024

On this World Ozone Day 2024, the National Ozone Unit of Trinidad and Tobago joins the global community in celebrating the progress made in protecting the ozone layer and safeguarding the future of our planet. This year's theme, "*Fixing the Ozone for Future Generations*," reminds us of the critical importance of our collective efforts to heal and protect the ozone layer, a vital shield that protects all life from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Since the signing of the Montreal Protocol in 1987, countries around the world, including Trinidad and Tobago, have made significant strides in phasing out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances (ODS). Today, we are proud to witness the recovery of the ozone layer, thanks to the tireless work of governments, scientists, and communities who remain committed to protecting this invaluable resource. According to the Scientific Assessment of Ozone Depletion: 2022, if current policies remain in place, the layer is expected to recover to 1980 values by 2040. Over the Antarctic, this recovery is expected by around 2066, and by 2045 over the Arctic. “The impact the Montreal Protocol has had on climate change mitigation cannot be overstressed,” said Meg Seki, Executive Secretary of the UN Environment Programme’s (UNEP) Ozone Secretariat. “Over the last 35 years, the Protocol has become a true champion for the environment. The assessments and reviews undertaken by the Scientific Assessment Panel remain a vital component of the work of the Protocol that helps inform policy and decision-makers.”

However, our work is not yet done. As we phase down the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), we must continue to promote sustainable practices, cleaner technologies, and climate-friendly alternatives. These actions not only protect the ozone layer but also mitigate the impacts of climate change, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable future for all.

We encourage all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago to join us in making environmentally conscious choices, supporting the phase-out of harmful substances, and raising awareness about the importance of ozone layer protection.

Together, let us continue to safeguard the ozone for future generations and ensure a healthy planet for all.

Happy World Ozone Day 2024!

Saturday 14 September 2024

WOD 2024 Awareness at Beach Clean up

Trinidad and Tobago joins the global community in celebrating World Ozone Day 2024. This natural shield known as the ozone layer, protects all life on earth from harmful UV rays. Thanks to global efforts under the Montreal Protocol, man made gases in the atmosphere discovered in the 1980s which were causing a hole in the ozone layer are being addressed. If current policies remain in place, the ozone layer is expected to recover to 1980 values by 2040. Removing these harmful gases is also helping to address climate change as these gases also cause global warming. Trinidad and Tobago became signatory to the Montreal Protocol in 1989 and remains committed to pursuing all necessary action to protect the ozone layer and the climate.

The National Ozone Unit celebrated WOD 2024 through awareness of the importance of the ozone layer and sun protection at a beach clean up held at Chagville beach on Sept 14 2024 ahead of WOD on Sept 16.