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Runesu Gwidi Herald Correspondent
Government will clamp down on errant refrigeration technicians still using phased out substances that destroy the ozone layer and also cause deadly diseases, the Director of Climate Change Management, Mr Washington Zhakata, has said. Mr Zhakata said the outbreak of diseases as a result of emissions of dangerous ozone-depleting gases into the air by mining, manufacturing and agricultural sectors was worrisome.

“Government is finalising the process of phasing dangerous substances and those who continue to use the disbanded substances will face the wrath of the law. A list of phased out substances that are still being used in various sectors will be placed at public places.

“At the moment, it is wise for refrigeration technicians to approach the Ministry of Environment, Water and Climate and the Standards Association of Zimbabwe to acquire vital information relating the chemical brands that are allowed by Government,’’ said Mr Zhakata.

He said the Ministry of Environment, Water and Climate would give certificates to those that meet the requirements in terms of environmental protection.

“The ministry will begin by sharing information with the community on the dangers of these gases, but very soon punitive action against errant technicians will follow. Those that move around mending utensils will also be expected to have been certified by the Government. The chemicals they use must first be put to test by the ministry and the Standards Association of Zimbabwe,’’ he said.

Mr Zhakata recently addressed teachers from schools around Masvingo Province at Masvingo Rural District offices on the dangers posed by gases emitted from refrigeration.

He said the proposed clampdown on errant refrigeration technicians was expected to take place in all provinces once Government drafts the list of phased out substances.

He said disease outbreaks were experienced when radiation passed through the ozone layer depleted by gases, thereby changing the genetic mechanism of the human bodies.

“We expect the media as the Fourth Estate to play a pivotal in disseminating information with regards to Government’s intention to phase out some of the substances used in the refrigeration industry to protect the environment and maintain public health.”

Mr Zhakata said the Ministry of Environment, Water and Climate ready to organise media awards for journalists whose stories or documentaries complement Government effort to protect the environment.