Doha, October 26 (QNA) - The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC) discussed with a delegation from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Regional Office for West Asia ways to strengthen cooperation and coordination in implementing approved projects and following up on Qatar's commitments under the Montreal Protocol on protecting the ozone layer.

During his meeting with the UN delegation, Assistant Undersecretary for Environmental Affairs Yousef Al Hamar discussed the latest developments in cooperation and projects related to the Montreal Protocol, as well as ways to provide technical support for national efforts to phase out ozone-depleting substances and promote the transition to more sustainable cooling and air-conditioning alternatives and technologies, in line with the country's environmental requirements and international commitments.

Al Hamar affirmed Qatar's commitment to strengthening cooperation with specialized international organizations and continuing its efforts to fulfill its environmental obligations.

He highlighted the importance of the partnership with UNEP in supporting national projects and promoting sustainable environmental practices in the cooling and air-conditioning sector.

For his part, Director of the Ministry's Department of Hazardous Chemicals and Waste Dr. Mohammed Ayed Al Shammari said the meeting addressed progress on ongoing projects and preparations for launching the third stage of the plan to manage the phase-out of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs).

Discussions also covered developing the technical capabilities of sector workers and ensuring the proper management of used refrigerants, in preparation for their complete phase-out by 2030.

A technical workshop was held with the participation of representatives from government entities and companies operating in the sector. It addressed technical and implementation preparations for the third stage, promoting good maintenance practices, and the proper management of refrigerants that cannot be reclaimed, including their disposal in accordance with environmental regulations.

During the workshop, Regional Coordinator of the Montreal Protocol for West Asia at UNEP, Eng. Khaled Klaly, discussed Qatar's achievements, the options available for the future plan, and mechanisms for training and licensing technicians and reclaiming refrigerants.

Director of the Work Licenses Department at the Ministry of Labour, Dr. Ahmed Al Hitmi, delivered a presentation on the systems and procedures governing occupational licensing and the requirements for practicing as a refrigeration and air-conditioning technician.

Meanwhile, Assistant Vice President for Innovation and Development at Qatar University, Dr. Saud Abdulaziz Abdulghani, discussed national workforce qualification programs, training schedules, and accredited training certificates.

The coordination team concerned with the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol held an evaluation meeting to assess proposals submitted by competing companies seeking equipment support to establish a unit for reclaiming used refrigerants.

The delegation also conducted a field visit to Qatar Cool to learn about its sustainable practices in recovering and recycling refrigerants.

These discussions and activities reflect Qatar's commitment to strengthening international cooperation, developing national capabilities, protecting the ozone layer, and advancing environmental sustainability in the country. (QNA)