Consultation Workshops on Montreal Protocol, Waste Management & Energy Efficiency at the Department of Climate Change in Nukuálofa

The Department of Climate Change, under the Ministry of MEIDECC, successfully conducted two consultation workshops this week to strengthen coordination and explore the critical links between the Montreal Protocol, waste management, and energy efficiency initiatives in Tonga.

The first workshop, held on Tuesday, 21 October 2025, focused on the linkages between the Montreal Protocol and the management of end-of-life air conditioners and refrigeration equipment. The discussions highlighted the importance of safely handling and disposing of these appliances to prevent the release of ozone-depleting and high global warming potential substances into the atmosphere.

The second workshop, held on Wednesday, 22 October 2025, centered on the synergized approach to promoting energy efficiency while ensuring that project activities under the Montreal Protocol do not overlap or duplicate existing initiatives currently implemented by the Department of Energy.

Participants included representatives from HM Customs, importers, RAC technicians, recycling companies, the Waste Authority, and the Departments of Environment and Energy under MEIDECC. These stakeholders engaged in productive discussions on aligning national efforts to achieve both environmental protection and energy efficiency goals.

Both workshops were facilitated by Mr. Áloisio Fifita from the Department of Climate Change – Ozone Unit, who emphasized the importance of a synergistic approach that integrates waste management and energy efficiency within the broader framework of the Montreal Protocol. He further highlighted that these initiatives aim to build upon existing national frameworks and legislations, ensuring coherence and sustainability rather than creating new systems.

These bilateral consultations will continue in the coming months to strengthen collaboration across sectors and enhance Tonga’s compliance with its international environmental commitments under the Montreal Protocol.

ENDS