AHRI address ozone layer protection at MOP 35 meeting in Nairobi

The 35th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (MOP 35) in Nairobi, Kenya, witnessed the active participation of AHRI MENA Managing Director Nabil Shahin and AHRI Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Samantha Slater. The Montreal Protocol, managed by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), is a vital international treaty aimed at safeguarding the Earth’s ozone layer.

Nabil Shahin played a key role as a panelist at the UNEP Workshop on Energy Efficiency and the Refrigerant Transition. In his presentation, Shahin shed light on the challenges faced by AHRI’s member manufacturers and regulatory bodies in the MENA region. He emphasized the intricacies of transitioning to environmentally friendly HVACR systems, including technological barriers, energy performance standards enhancements, cost considerations, safety and building code compliance, and the imperative need for comprehensive regulatory frameworks to facilitate the adoption of low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants. Shahin proposed the adoption of regionally harmonized standards to streamline efforts in the MENA region, providing a consistent framework for manufacturers, promoting energy-efficient technologies, and easing the transition to eco-friendly refrigerants. He also recommended the establishment of a regional task force involving all stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive approach to the transition.

Meanwhile, Samantha Slater participated in a side event organized by AHRI member Danfoss, themed “Building Better Supermarkets for the World: The Role of Refrigerants and Energy Efficiency.” Slater delivered updates on the United States’ refrigerant transition, discussing legislative developments, including the pre-publication technology transitions final rule, and outlining the country’s next steps.

The engagement of AHRI representatives at MOP 35 showcases their commitment to addressing critical issues related to ozone layer protection and promoting sustainable environmental practices in the HVACR industry.