Risk Profiling Workshop on Ozone Depleting Substances administered by the Tonga National Ozone Unit for Vava’u Stakeholders

13th November, 2020 The Tonga National Ozone Unit from the Ministry of MEIDECC – Department of Climate Change in partnership with His Majesty’s Custom, successfully implemented two days (11 -12/November) of training in risk profiling of Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) at the Fakamelino Hall in Neiafu, Vavaú.

The workshop was officially opened by the acting officer in charge of the Ministry of MEIDECC – Vavaú, Mr. Uili Úlingaholo. During his opening remarks, he clarified that the full security of the border from illegal trades of ozone depleting substances and other high global warming potential refrigerants cannot be done alone by the custom officials on the watch, but by full collaborations of related government line ministries and other non-government organizations.  Mr.Úlingaholo ended his speech by reiterating the theme of the national climate change awareness week 2020 , “Takanga étau Fohe ki ha Tonga Tuúloa” as a clear portrait of what’s needed to be done in order to safeguard the ozone layer and building a resilient Tonga.

Furthermore, the workshop focused on border security issues and responsibilities of Custom officials such as risk profiling, physical inspection techniques and checking of ODS documentations. There were also presentations on the requirements of the Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the ozone layer. These sessions were led by Mr. Sau Niulala from HM Custom and Mr. Áloisio Fifita from the Department of Climate Change in Tonga.

The workshop was funded by the United Nations Environment Programme and attended by representatives from different government line ministries as well as non-government organizations in Neiafu, Vavaú.

ENDS

Issued by the: Department of Climate Change (MEIDECC)