Training Workshop for Environmental Inspectors and Other Enforcement Officers, “Strengthening Compliance with the Montreal Protocol and Kigali Amendment”
02/06/2025
World Refrigeration Day 2025 in Albania – Raising Awareness and Promoting New Technologies in the RAC&HP Sector
26/06/2025
Stakeholder Consultation on the National Inventory of Banks of Used or Unwanted Controlled Substances was held on June 10, 2025, to discuss the preparation of the Inventory of Unwanted Controlled Substances, with a focus on enhancing national capacity in compliance with the Montreal Protocol and EU legislation. The meeting was organized by the National Ozone Unit, in cooperation with the Barleti Group and the Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning (RAC) Association. The agenda included presentations from representatives of the National Ozone Unit (NOU), the Barleti Group, the National Environment Agency, and national experts in the fields of F-gas legislation, waste management, and the RAC sector. The meeting was attended by 35 participants from various institutions, private companies dealing with HFC substances, importers, and technicians in the refrigeration and air-conditioning (RAC) sector.
Participants emphasized the importance and challenges of inventory preparation, highlighting its strategic role in aligning Albania with international obligations, particularly regarding the EU Regulation 2024/573 and the national Law No. 2/2023 on fluorinated greenhouse gases.
The session on inventory methodology offered a detailed explanation of the data collection and reporting framework. Participants found this guidance essential in improving their understanding of how to effectively identify, quantify, and report unwanted ODS/HFCs.
Discussions on waste management in the RAC sector were particularly helpful. Stakeholders exchanged views on the current legislative framework and technical capacities for handling hazardous and controlled substances. They acknowledged existing gaps, especially in identification and safe disposal of unused substances.
The open discussion session generated valuable feedback on enhancing inter-institutional cooperation and identifying additional data sources. Participants contributed several constructive proposals to improve data accuracy and streamline processes.
In conclusion, the meeting proved highly productive. The participants’ contributions significantly enriched the understanding of both inventory development and waste management practices in the refrigeration and air-conditioning (RAC) sector. The outcomes will guide the next steps in implementing an effective national action plan for managing unwanted controlled substances.
A second stakeholder meeting is planned for October 2025, during which the draft action plan for managing unwanted controlled substances will be presented and discussed with all relevant actors.
