December 07, 2005
Regulations to help protect the ozone layer were announced today by Conservation Minister Stan Struthers.
The measures, which were developed in conjunction with the local industry association, will strengthen Manitoba’s efforts to phase out the use of ozone-depleting substances (ODS), such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) and halons in aging commercial-refrigeration, air-conditioning and fire-suppressant equipment.
“These changes reflect Manitoba’s commitment to Canada’s National Action Plan on ozone-depleting substances and our support for global efforts to phase out and eliminate the use of these substances,” said Struthers. “By ensuring the proper management, collection and disposal of these substances today, we are protecting the health of our children and our environment for tomorrow.”
The Manitoba Ozone Protection Industry Association (MOPIA), Manitoba’s industry stakeholder association, joined Struthers in acknowledging the importance of these measures and their commitment to educate and work with the public and industry stakeholders on the requirements of the regulation.
“Industry is already taking steps to eliminate the use of ODS in Manitoba and controls are needed to support the transition of using alternative substances that are less harmful to the environment, but can contribute to climate change if released to the atmosphere,” said MOPIA president Don Thomson.
Starting Jan. 1, amendments to the Ozone Depleting Substances Regulation will phase out the use of ozone-depleting substances and require controls for replacement products:
requiring sellers of ozone-depleting substances and other halocarbons to take back and properly manage these substances;
prohibiting owners or operators from refilling equipment with CFCs including mobile (automobile) air conditioners, mobile refrigeration units, commercial refrigeration and air conditioning, and fixed fire-extinguishing systems containing halons;
implementing the same handling requirements for the recovery and recycling of replacement products, and the hydrofluorocarbons used in newer air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment; and
mandating the use of refillable containers to handle all ozone-depleting substances and their replacement products.
As well, a $50 permit will be required for CFC chillers and fixed fire-extinguishing equipment that contain halons. As well, technician certification rates, which have not changed since 1994, will increase by $5 to $25. All fees will continue to be retained by MOPIA, as a service provider, for use toward continued administrative, educational and technological services for Manitoba stakeholders.
Once released, a single chlorine atom from a CFC molecule can destroy as many as 100,000 ozone molecules, which protect the Earth from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.
“Modern technologies offer us environmentally-friendly alternatives to the use of ozone-destroying chlorofluorocarbons and halons,” Struthers said. “These measures will help us make the transition from old to new with more energy-efficient air-conditioning and refrigeration technologies in a safe manner.”
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