NEMA Implements Strict Regulations to Phase Out Ozone-Depleting Refrigerants

Beginning January 2026, Kenya will cease imports of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) refrigerants, as mandated by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).

This action aligns with the commitments established under the Montreal Protocol, which seeks to phase out substances harmful to the ozone layer. NEMA announced on December 18 that 2025 will be the final year for HCFC imports, marking a significant step in the country’s strategy to reduce environmental impact and encourage sustainable practices within the refrigeration and air conditioning sectors.

Importers have been instructed to obtain their annual import licenses for 2025 by February 28. Failure to comply with the new regulations post-phase-out date will result in violations of the Environmental Management and Coordination (Controlled Substances) Regulations of 2007, which aim to regulate the production, trade, and usage of environmentally damaging substances in accordance with international agreements.

HCFCs, including the widely used R-22, have been shown to significantly damage the ozone layer, which protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation. The adverse effects of HCFCs on climate change have prompted global initiatives to explore and implement safer alternatives. Leading efforts in this regard, South Korea has developed cutting-edge technologies, such as the ultra-high-speed compander, which uses air as a refrigerant to achieve extremely low temperatures of -60 degrees Celsius.

Several African countries are also actively pursuing the phase-out of HCFCs. Zimbabwe has implemented a complete ban on HCFC imports as part of its national strategy aimed at ozone layer protection and energy efficiency, with a targeted elimination date set for January 2030. The global shift away from HCFCs is essential in addressing climate change challenges thus promoting sustainable practices in industries reliant on refrigeration and air conditioning.