Fourteen Pacific Island Countries, including the Cook Islands, gathered in Nuku’alofa, Tonga to discuss the rollout of four new projects to be implemented at the national level. These projects are designed to support countries in fulfilling their obligations under the Montreal Protocol and its Kigali Amendment, both of which aim to protect the ozone layer and reduce the emission of climate-harming gases—particularly Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), commonly used in refrigeration and air-conditioning appliances.
As part of this regional initiative, the Cook Islands will receive USD $188,750 to implement the following four projects:
- Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) Phase-Out Management Plan Stage 2 (HPMP Stage 2): This project focuses on strengthening regulatory frameworks, conducting stakeholder training, and promoting the adoption of low-global warming potential (GWP) alternatives to HCFC-based refrigerants, particularly in the commercial refrigeration and air-conditioning sectors.
- Kigali Implementation Plan Stage I (KIP S1): Under this plan, the Cook Islands will take critical steps to manage and reduce HFC consumption. Key activities include enhancing national licensing and quota systems, improving data collection and reporting processes, and raising awareness among importers and technicians about the environmental impact of HFCs and available alternatives.
- Energy Efficiency: This project addresses the increasing energy demands of the cooling sector by promoting energy efficiency in refrigerant management. Activities will include capacity-building workshops for technicians on energy-efficient cooling system installation and maintenance, legislation on minimum energy performance standards (MEPS), and running public awareness campaigns to encourage the uptake of energy-efficient appliances.
- National Inventory of Banks of ODS and HFCs: This project will support the development of a national inventory to identify and quantify banks of ozone-depleting substances and HFCs stored in unused equipment or containers. It aims to assess current recovery, recycling, and reclamation practices, evaluate existing policies and facilities for the destruction of unwanted substances, and address challenges in managing these controlled substances. The project will also guide the development of a national strategy and action plan for environmentally sound management, based on suitable business models.
This marks the first time that Pacific Island Countries are running four projects in parallel. The integrated approach is intentional, designed to avoid duplication of effort, ease the workload of limited technical staff, and reduce the risk of double-utilization of funds and unnecessary administrative burdens. By aligning activities and resources, the region aims to strengthen impact and ensure efficient implementation across the board. The region will be supported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) as the implementing agency and the Australian Government. The projects will run between 2025-2030.
The Cook Islands was represented by the National Environment Service (NES), with Ms. Mii Herman and Mr. Ngatupuna Kae participating in two important regional meetings: the Network Meeting of Pacific Island Countries’ National Ozone Officers from 5–7 May, followed by the Technical Workshop on Strengthening Hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) Licensing and Quota Systems from 8–9 May. Mii Herman stated that “For the Cook Islands, the projects were tailored based on findings from a national survey conducted in 2024 and stakeholder meetings, ensuring that the activities align with national priorities, industry needs, and existing capacity to implement effective and sustainable solution”.
