16/09/2025
As the world commemorates International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 2025, Eswatini stands united to show how small nations can make a big impact in addressing global environmental threats. The theme for this year's celebration, ‘From science to global action,’ perfectly captures the journey of the Montreal Protocol and the strides a country like Eswatini has taken to protect our planet.
Forty years ago, the international community came together under the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer. The scientific consensus was clear: man-made chemicals were creating a hole in our planet’s protective shield. It was a wake-up call that led to the adoption of the Montreal Protocol, a landmark agreement that began the global phase-out of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
The treaties proved that by heeding scientific warnings nations could work together to reverse environmental damage. The ozone layer is now on a path to recovery, a monumental achievement that has prevented millions of cases of skin cancer and other health issues. Eswatini has played its part in this global success story and is setting a new standard for others to follow.
The Eswatini Environment Authority (EEA) and the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs have been at the forefront of the nation’s climate action. With the help of stakeholders, they demonstrated their commitment by completely phasing out CFCs in 2007, three years ahead of the 2010 target. This early compliance highlights a dedication that goes beyond mere obligation.
The commitment extends to hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which replaced CFCs but also have ozone-depleting properties. Eswatini is well on its way to achieving its HCFC reduction target of 67.5 per cent by 2025. This decisive action is a clear example of a nation moving from scientific understanding to practical implementation. The country’s efforts in environmental protection are enshrined in its national development strategy which prioritises environmental management and sustainability.
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