INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
ASSOCIATIONS
Part of the presentation .
being used unless we get it from you ,” he explained . Data collection is a fundamental task for NOUs , and Chaumba highlighted that RAC associations play a key role in supporting these efforts by providing insights into refrigerant usage and trends . " The illegal trade in refrigerants is a significant challenge , and associations must collaborate with NOUs to identify and stop these activities . This requires both proactive efforts and the development of effective reporting systems to track the movement of these substances ."
Ethical behavior , trust and cooperation were recurring themes throughout the discussion . " The relationship between NOUs and RAC associations must be built on mutual trust and cooperation ," Chaumba noted . " Both parties have a shared responsibility to ensure environmental protection and to meet the goals of the Montreal Protocol . By working together , and looking at the lifecycle of refrigerants , we can achieve greater success ."
There are other critical areas of collaboration , such as the implementation of energy-efficient standards and gender mainstreaming . " RAC associations must also play a role in promoting energyefficient practices within the industry . As we transition to more energy-efficient systems , we also need to consider gender equality in the workforce , ensuring that women are represented in training , certification and leadership roles within the sector ."
Chaumba stressed the importance of formalising partnerships between NOUs and RAC associations . " Partnership agreements are essential to enhance our collective efforts in environmental protection . By establishing clear expectations and responsibilities , we can strengthen our cooperation and ensure that we meet both national and international obligations .
He further noted that recovery and recycling practices are essential to minimising environmental damage and reducing the consumption of harmful refrigerants .
Chaumba acknowledged that there is also a need for stronger enforcement of industry codes of conduct . " We need a system where people follow a certain code of conduct ," he said , referring to the example of Zimbabwe ’ s established codes . He pointed out that the success of environmental protection initiatives requires collaboration between RAC associations and NOUs to identify and implement relevant projects . " Under the Montreal Protocol , countries are required to identify projects that can reduce the consumption of ODSs . The more the associations
George Chaumba , Zimbabwe ’ s national ozone project manager in the ministry of environment , climate , tourism and hospitality .
cooperate , the more successful we will be in meeting our targets ."
Ultimately , Chumba ' s discussion highlighted several key points :
• Data collection : RAC associations must assist in the collection and reporting of data regarding refrigerant usage , as NOUs rely on this information to monitor and ensure compliance with international agreements .
• Training and certification : Associations must actively participate in training programmes to promote best practices in refrigerant management , recovery and recycling , as well as ensure their members are certified .
• Codes of conduct and energy efficiency : There is a need for clear industry codes of conduct to promote ethical behaviour , and the adoption of energy-efficient technologies should be a priority , particularly in the context of the Kigali Amendment .
• Gender mainstreaming : Efforts to integrate gender equality into the RAC sector should be prioritised to ensure greater representation of women in the workforce and leadership roles .
• Collaboration on projects : RAC associations are key partners in identifying projects that can help reduce ODSs and contribute to the broader goals of environmental protection .
• Psychological contract : The relationship between NOUs and RAC associations should be built on mutual trust and cooperation , with the understanding that both parties will benefit from a collaborative approach .
“ We need to work together to create a better future for our environment ,” he concluded . CLA
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