Syllabus: GS3/ Environment
In Context
- The Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol that was adopted on 15 October 2016 marks a decade of global efforts to reduce hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).
What is the Kigali Amendment?
- Background: The Montreal Protocol, adopted in 1987, was designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out ozone-depleting substances such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
- Why was it needed? HFCs were widely adopted as alternatives to CFCs because they do not deplete the ozone layer. However, many HFCs have a high global warming potential.
- Adoption: It was adopted in Kigali, Rwanda, on 15 October 2016, and entered into force on 1 January 2019.
- Objective: To gradually reduce HFC production and consumption worldwide. It is a phase-down, not a complete phase-out.
- Climate benefit: Full implementation could prevent approximately 0.3°C–0.5°C of global warming by 2100.
Important Refrigerants: CFCs vs HFCs
- CFCs (Chlorofluorocarbons): Damage the stratospheric ozone layer and also contribute to global warming.
- HFCs (Hydrofluorocarbons): Do not directly deplete the ozone layer but many have a high global warming potential.
- Low (Global Warming Potential) alternatives: Options such as ammonia, carbon dioxide and certain hydrocarbons can reduce climate impacts, subject to equipment requirements and safety considerations.
Why is Cooling Important for Climate Action?
- Cooling affects the climate in two major ways:
- Refrigerant emissions: HFCs can escape from air-conditioners, refrigerators and other cooling equipment, contributing to global warming.
- Electricity consumption: Cooling equipment consumes electricity, which can cause emissions when power is generated using fossil fuels.
India’s Commitments under the Kigali Amendment
- Ratification: India ratified the amendment in 2021.
- HFC freeze: India is required to freeze HFC production and consumption at its agreed baseline in 2028.
- Reduction schedule: The first reduction is 10% below the baseline in 2032, followed by progressively deeper reductions, reaching 85% in 2047.
- Key challenge: India’s cooling demand is expected to rise with increasing temperatures, urbanisation, incomes and access to air-conditioning.
What More Needs to Be Done?
- Improve energy efficiency: Strengthen appliance standards so that new cooling equipment uses less electricity.
- Manage refrigerants: Recover, recycle or safely destroy refrigerants from old equipment to prevent leakage.
- Support industry: Provide access to suitable technology, finance and training for manufacturers and technicians.
- Strengthen implementation: Improve servicing practices, refrigerant recovery systems and monitoring of HFC use.
Multilateral Fund
- Multilateral Fund: Established in 1990 to help developing countries meet their obligations under the Montreal Protocol.
- Purpose: Supports technology conversion, capacity-building and training.
- Significance: Financial and technical assistance helps developing countries adopt alternatives without placing the entire transition cost on domestic industries.
Source: IE
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