Timor Leste to Strengthen National Capacities to Phase out ODS

This information note on Timor-Leste’s activities to mark World Ozone Day 2015 and the 30th anniversary of the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer highlights a major milestone in the country’s environmental efforts. It documents the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Environment and the State Secretary of Labor and Professional Development, aimed at strengthening national capacities to phase out ozone depleting substances (ODS), especially hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), used exclusively in the refrigeration and air-conditioning (RAC) sector. The initiative focuses on institutionalizing technical training, updating curricula, and building the capacity of trainers to support long-term ODS phase-out. The event gathered over 100 participants from government bodies, academia, NGOs, industry, and the media, reflecting strong cross-sectoral support. As one of the world’s youngest nations, Timor-Leste reaffirmed its commitment to the Montreal Protocol and sustainable environmental governance.