The Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) have signed a relevant document on the joint implementation of the project “HCFC Phase-out Management Plan in Turkmenistan — Stage III (2026–2030)”. This was reported by the ministry’s press service.

The new project is aimed at reducing the use of substances that negatively affect the ozone layer and ensuring the fulfilment of Turkmenistan’s international commitments in this area. The main objective of the project is to gradually reduce the consumption of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), including HCFC-22, used in refrigeration equipment, cooling systems and heat pumps, with the complete phase-out of their use by 2030.

The project, covering the period of 2026–2030, will be implemented with financial support from the Multilateral Fund established for the implementation of the Montreal Protocol. Within its framework, measures are planned to strengthen control over the circulation of ozone-depleting substances, modernize the technical infrastructure of environmental and customs laboratories, and improve the professional skills of specialists working in relevant fields.

The project also includes improving the training and certification system for refrigeration equipment service specialists, as well as introducing specialized equipment for the safe collection, storage and recovery of ozone-depleting substances.

The implementation of the project will contribute to the development of one of the key areas of Turkmenistan’s environmental protection policy, ensure the protection of the ozone layer, enhance ecological security and promote the wider use of environmentally friendly technologies in refrigeration systems.