Holguín committed to ozone layer protection
- Written by Jorge Fernández Pérez
- Published in Holguin
- Hits: 88
In Holguín, various actions are being carried out to protect the ozone layer led by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Environment (Citma) alongside other institutions, in commemoration of the World Ozone Layer Protection Day celebrated on September 16.
These efforts coincide with the 30th anniversary of the Ozone Technical Unit and focus on eliminating substances harmful to this vital environmental shield. Cuba is implementing a plan to eliminate hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), substances that damage the ozone layer.
This year, the campaign’s theme is “From Science to Global Action,” featuring the virtual contest Otoz, where children and adolescents can participate with drawings, poems, stories, and other artistic expressions to raise awareness about the importance of environmental protection.
According to Norkis Ochoa Aguilera, an Ozone Program specialist in the province, young people are engaged in practical activities such as environmental cleanup campaigns, tree planting, and collection of recyclable materials, as well as community contests and festivals, fostering active environmental education that benefits society.
Regarding the state and non-state sectors, training is provided to improve environmental awareness, especially in refrigeration and climate control, areas related to reducing pollutant gases. Instructors from the Holguín Technological Institute provide specialized courses so that technicians and workers can apply best practices to protect the ozone.
Ochoa Aguilera specified that with the implementation of the HCFC elimination plan, Holguín has 76 entities that have signed the voluntary declaration for the replacement of polluting gases through innovation and environmentally friendly practices.
Holguín stands out with a large number of committed entities: 76 have signed voluntary declarations to replace pollutant gases, and 29 centers received the National Award for being Free of Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS) between 2020 and 2024. In 2025, seven more entities were recognized, positioning this province as a leader in Cuba for its achievements in this crucial environmental effort.
