With a view to sensitize refrigeration technicians about the use of Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) during their work, the National Environment Agency (NEA) organized training for technicians in the Lower River Region as part of a countrywide training program.

In Pakalinding, LRR, refrigeration technicians were trained on the causes of ozone depletion and what they can do during their work to minimize the effects on ozone depletion. The depletion of the ozone layer can cause skin cancer, eye cataract, can reduce crop yields, damage forests and harms marine live.

Therefore in 1990 The Gambia Government ratified the Montreal Protocol, which implies a world wide phase out of Ozone Depleting Substances. In doing so, the Gambia Government is decisive to work towards the phase out of substances that deplete the ozone layer, to protect human health as well as the environment in The Gambia and complementing the global activities taken to stop ozone layer depletion.

One of these Ozone Depleting Substances is ChloroFluorCarbon or CFC, a substance used in refrigerants (air-conditioning and fridges among others). CFC is widely used by refrigeration technicians. During the week long training the technicians gained knowledge on Ozone Depleting Substances and learned how to work with substances that are not harmful to the environment.

During the official opening of the training, Mr. Momodou Soma Jobe, Governor Lower River Region, emphasized on the importance of the training which will equip the participants with the relevant knowledge and skills to address the perennial problem of fighting ozone depletion. As the use of refrigeration products in our cars, offices and homes are on the increase it is important to work towards more environmental sound practices.

With funds from the United Nations Environment Programme and through the NEA, the Gambia Government is decisive to abandon all products containing Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) by January 2010.