By Eamonn Ryan, from the transcript
At the HFC Phase Down Workshop hosted by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) on 16/17 September, Natasha Kochova project coordinator at UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organisation) presented on the topic of the Kigali Implementation Plan (KIP). The following is her presentation. This is Part 5 of a five-part article.
Challenges with tariff codes and refrigerant management
Another significant concern was raised about managing and monitoring refrigerants under the ‘other’ tariff codes, which can complicate quota control and reporting. This issue is widespread, as many countries face similar challenges with non-specific tariff categories that make it difficult to track and manage refrigerant imports and exports accurately.
To address this, some countries have developed specific subheadings or categories for refrigerants to reduce the ambiguity of the ‘other’ category. This approach helps in accurately monitoring and managing the quantities and types of refrigerants, thereby improving the accuracy of CO2 equivalent calculations and facilitating better regulatory oversight.
Insights from other countries
Regarding the implementation of the Kigali Amendment in other countries, it was noted that many nations have already moved beyond the preparatory phase and are actively working on stage one of their Kigali Implementation Plans (KIPs). These countries are focusing on meeting their initial 10% reduction targets and are engaging in various activities to ensure compliance.
Some countries have integrated energy efficiency projects within their Kigali plans or as separate initiatives. The combination of HFC reduction and energy efficiency improvements is crucial for meeting both international commitments and national climate goals.
The meeting transitioned to a presentation by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE), focusing on the status of HCFC consumption. The presentation included data from January to July 2024, provided by customs, detailing the import and export volumes of various HFCs in kilograms.
Key points from the data: The data covers eight different HFCs, including HFC-134a, HFC-32, and various blends such as HCFC-407, HCFC-714a, and HFC-404a.
The report aimed to provide a snapshot of refrigerant consumption patterns and help in assessing compliance with Kigali Amendment targets. The data is critical for tracking progress and ensuring that South Africa remains on track with its KIP. Continued monitoring and reporting will be essential for adapting strategies and ensuring effective reduction of HFC emissions.
The discussions highlighted the need for both accurate monitoring systems and comprehensive strategies to meet Kigali Amendment goals. Addressing the dual challenges of HFC reduction and energy efficiency will be crucial for achieving the desired environmental outcomes. As countries like South Africa work towards these targets, collaboration and sharing of best practices will play a significant role in overcoming challenges and ensuring successful implementation.