Samoa has commemorated World Ozone Day 2026 with a focus on sustainable cooling, technical training and the country’s continuing efforts to protect the ozone layer.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, through its Meteorological Division, held the commemoration at the Meteorological Office at Mulinuʻu under this year’s theme, “Global Action for a Cooler Planet”.
This year also commemorates 10 years since the adoption of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which strengthened international efforts to reduce hydrofluorocarbons, or HFCs, and encourage more energy-efficient and climate-friendly cooling systems.
The year 2026 is also 39 years since the Montreal Protocol was adopted in 1987, highlighting nearly four decades of international cooperation to protect the ozone layer.
In Samoa, the National Ozone Unit within MNRE coordinates the country’s obligations under the Montreal Protocol. Its work is supported by the Ozone Layer Protection Regulations 2006 and the Meteorology, Geoscience and Ozone Act 2021, which provide the framework for regulating controlled substances and implementing Samoa’s ozone protection commitments.
Acting Assistant Chief Executive Officer for the Meteorology Services Division, Namulauulu Taua Aroni, said continued cooperation and national action were important to protecting the environment.
“The protection of the ozone layer is a clear example of what can be achieved through sustained international cooperation and collective national action,” Namulauulu said.
He said Samoa must continue strengthening technical capacity, promoting responsible practices within the refrigeration and air-conditioning sector and helping communities and young people understand the role they can play in environmental protection.
The World Ozone Day programme also included a presentation reflecting on a decade of the Kigali Amendment and the transition towards cooling systems that are more environmentally responsible and energy efficient.
Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning technicians who took part in Good Servicing Practices Training were presented with certificates.
Technicians also carried out a live demonstration on refrigerant recovery, safe handling and good servicing practices, highlighting the importance of responsible refrigerant management in Samoa’s move towards more sustainable cooling.
MNRE said World Ozone Day continues to provide an opportunity to strengthen public awareness of ozone protection and encourage collective action towards environmental sustainability.
The Ministry acknowledged the United Nations Environment Programme for its continued support, along with refrigeration and air-conditioning technicians, schools, students, government representatives and other stakeholders who took part in the commemoration.
This story is based on a press release issued by Samoa’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.
