Saudi Arabia reduces ozone-depleting substances by 69 percent

Saudi Arabia has achieved a 69 percent reduction in the disposal of ozone-depleting substances during the first half of 2026. This progress aligns with the nation's commitment to the Montreal Protocol and the gradual phase-out of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs).

According to the National Center for Environmental Compliance, more than 8,000 metric tons of ozone-depleting substances and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) have been cleared since the start of the year. This regulation is managed through an environmental clearance system designed to control the import and circulation of these materials in accordance with international environmental standards.

Spokesperson Saad Al-Matrafi noted that since 2023, the center has issued over 3,200 clearance permits for substances governed by the Montreal Protocol. The efficiency of these operations has been bolstered by electronic integration between the National Center for Environmental Compliance and the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority, which has expedited shipment clearance while maintaining strict oversight. The Kingdom's ratification of the Kigali Amendment in September 2025 is cited as a key step in reducing gases with high climate impact.