7 October 2011: The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) has announced the Government of Bhutan’s initiative to phase out ozone-depleting substances (ODS). The hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) Phase-out Management Plan commits Bhutan to phasing HCFCs, which are ozone depleting and greenhouse gases (GHGs).

UNEP’s Division of Technology, Industry and Economics (DTIE), through its OzonAction Programme, has provided assistance to Bhutan through stakeholder consultations and a survey of HCFC consumption.

Under the HCFC Plan, Bhutan has committed to a three-pronged approach for HCFC phase-out: limiting the supply of HCFCs; reducing the demand for HCFCs for servicing existing equipment; and limiting new demand of HCFCs. [UNEP Press Release]