Khulna: An awareness workshop on the implementation of the Montreal Protocol for the protection of the ozone layer was held today at the CSS Ava Center in Khulna City. The workshop was organized under the “Renewal of Institutional Strengthening for the Phase-Out of ODS (Phase-10)” project, implemented by the Department of Environment (DoE).
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Divisional Commissioner of Khulna, Md. Firoz Sarkar, spoke as the chief guest, highlighting Bangladesh’s significant role in meeting targets for phasing out ozone-depleting substances under the Montreal Protocol. He underscored the importance of raising awareness about necessary actions amid changing circumstances and encouraged stakeholders to use refrigerant gases that are environmentally friendly.
Md. Firoz Sarkar also noted that ozone-depleting substances not only damage the ozone layer but also significantly contribute to climate change, which has led to frequent natural disasters in the southern region of Bangladesh. He stressed the need for eliminating harmful gases and advocated for regular servicing of refrigerators and air conditioners, advising people to avoid setting air conditioners below 25°C.
Additionally, he promoted the use of energy-efficient and eco-friendly technologies, expressing hope that with governmental efforts and public awareness, harmful gases could be completely phased out by 2040. The workshop emphasized the ozone layer’s crucial role in preserving life on Earth and warned of the gradual depletion caused by daily human activities.
The workshop cautioned that a weakened ozone layer allows harmful ultraviolet rays to penetrate the Earth’s surface more easily, severely affecting human health, wildlife, plant life, microorganisms, and biodiversity. Excessive UV radiation was noted to increase risks of skin cancer, cataracts, and weakened immune systems.
Furthermore, the indirect effects of ozone depletion include climate change, floods, droughts, and desertification. Md. Sadikul Islam, Director of the Khulna Divisional Office of the Department of Environment, presided over the workshop, while Md Mahiuddin Manik, Director of the Institutional Strengthening Project, presented the keynote paper.