Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini may be a small nation, but its voice in the global fight against environmental threats is proving loud and powerful.
Today, as the world marks the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 2025, the Kingdom joined hands with other nations under the theme “From science to global action.”
Environment experts, policymakers, and stakeholders reflected on how far the world, and Eswatini, has come since scientists first sounded the alarm 40 years ago about the thinning ozone layer. What followed was the Montreal Protocol, a landmark treaty that phased out dangerous chemicals like CFCs.
The results are clear: the ozone layer is on the mend, and millions of lives have been saved from diseases linked to UV radiation.
Eswatini has not only played its part, but often stayed ahead of the game. The Eswatini Environment Authority (EEA), working with the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, has been at the forefront of action.
The country phased out CFCs in 2007, a full three years ahead of the global 2010 target.
“This is not just compliance, it is leadership,” officials noted, pointing out that the country is now well on track to meet its target of reducing HCFCs by 67.5 per cent by 2025.
A shining example of Eswatini’s commitment came from local industry. Palfridge, a refrigeration manufacturer, successfully transitioned to eco-friendly hydrocarbon refrigerants, earning global recognition in 2017 at a Montreal awards ceremony.
That achievement, officials say, proved that economic growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
The world is now tackling the next challenge: hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases covered under the Kigali Amendment. Eswatini ratified the amendment in 2020, pledging to freeze HFC consumption by 2024 and slash it by 80 per cent by 2045.
Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jane Mkhonta-Simelane said the Kingdom’s efforts were proof that small nations could lead by example.
“Our story shows the world that science backed by action changes lives. Every community, every country matters in this global fight,” she said.
As Eswatini celebrates progress, experts stressed that vigilance is key. Monitoring ozone levels, enforcing regulations, and raising public awareness remain vital.
For Eswatini, the message is clear: protecting the ozone layer is not only about safeguarding the skies above, but also the future of generations to come.
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