As Nigeria accelerates its commitment to phase down ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADeV Nigeria), in collaboration with EnviroNews Nigeria, has hosted a high-level national webinar to build the capacity of media professionals and civil society organisations (CSOs) on sustainable, energy-efficient cooling solutions.
Held under the theme “The Role of the Media and CSOs in Advancing Nigeria’s Transition from ODS to Climate-Friendly Refrigerants and Cooling Technologies”, the event brought together journalists, editors, bloggers, communication experts, and NGO representatives from across the country.
In his opening address, Dr. Leslie Adogame, Executive Director of SRADeV Nigeria, emphasised the crucial role the media plays in simplifying technical climate issues for public understanding.
“Nigeria has made significant strides, achieving a 67.5% reduction in HCFCs as of 2025, with full phase-out targeted for 2030. However, public awareness remains low. The media is instrumental in bridging this gap by translating complex environmental data into relatable stories that inform, educate, and mobilise citizens,” Dr. Adogame stated.
The keynote presentation, delivered by Mr. Jeremiah Ato, Technical and Policy Manager at SRADeV Nigeria, offered detailed insights into the scientific, policy, and environmental aspects of the Montreal Protocol, Nigeria’s HCFC Phase-Out Management Plan (HPMP), and the Kigali Amendment.
Mr. Ato highlighted that while chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) have been largely phased out, the focus has now shifted to hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which, though ozone-friendly, are highly potent greenhouse gases contributing to climate change.
“The Kigali Amendment compels Nigeria to significantly cut HFC consumption. Fortunately, safer alternatives such as R-600a, R-290, CO₂ (R-744), and ammonia (R-717) are available, offering both environmental and energy efficiency advantages,” Mr. Ato explained.
The webinar provided participants with practical knowledge on:
* The science of ozone depletion and global warming.
* Nigeria’s obligations under the Montreal Protocol and Kigali Amendment.
* Available sustainable alternatives in the refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) sector.
* Case studies showcasing green technologies currently in use.
Dr. Adogame further emphasised that informed media reporting can amplify public awareness of the environmental, health, and economic benefits of transitioning to climate-friendly refrigerants, while also driving policy advocacy and behavioural change.
Participants included a wide range of media stakeholders, print, broadcast, and digital journalist,s as well as environmental bloggers, media advocates, communication specialists, and CSOs. The session also fostered stronger collaborations between media and environmental organisations, aiming to increase both the quantity and quality of climate reporting in Nigeria.
The webinar concluded with a collective call to action, urging the media and CSOs to play an active role in Nigeria’s ongoing transition to green, energy-efficient cooling solutions as part of its international environmental commitments.