Paris, Nov 24 (Prensa Latina) Cuban Vice Minister of Science, Technology and Environment America Santos highlighted in France the work done by her country in reducing compounds that damage the ozone layer today and tackling climate change.
Santos participated here at the meeting of the Parties to the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol on substances depleting the planet’s protective shield.
In statements to Prensa Latina, the Deputy Minister explained that the Caribbean nation has a Technical Ozone Office, responsible for coordinating and monitoring the national implementation program of the Montreal Protocol.
That treaty, which entered into force in 1989, is considered the most successful international environmental agreement, as shown strong results, with positive impacts on human health and the environment.
Among the main achievements of Cuba figure the total elimination of import of CFCs and non-use of methyl bromide for agricultural purposes (derived from saturated hydrocarbons considered the biggest culprit whole ozone gas).
Moreover, programs for eliminating hydro chlorofluorocarbons (compounds formed by atoms of chlorine, fluorine, hydrogen and carbon) within the time provided by the country and agreed to the protocol are implemented.
Santos recalled that scientific research shows flattering signs in the recovery of the ozone layer, which filters sunlight and prevents the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.
She also referred to efforts since the early years of the triumph of the Revolution, in 1959, made his country for sustainable development and explained that Cuba has a program for tackling climate change, risk studies, hazards and vulnerabilities in all municipalities and provinces.
The deputy minister highlighted the work being done on environmental education in schools and factories to raise awareness about the importance of these issues.
The Cuban delegation to the Paris meeting, sponsored by the United Nations Program for the Environment, was also built by Henry Moret, director of International Relations of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment, and Yadira Gonzalez, an official of that agency.
France will host the next year of the XXI Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
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