Jamaica National Ozone Unit, National Environment and Planning Agency

The National Ozone Unit (NOU) sits inside the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA). It was set up in 1997 to facilitate the phase out of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other Ozone Depleting Substances (ODSs) in Jamaica. The phase out is part of Jamaica's obligations under the Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the ozone layer, an agreement between countries to phase out the use of ODSs within stipulated time frames.

Jamaica became a party to the agreement in 1993 and phased out of CFCs at January 1, 2006, four years ahead of schedule for developing countries.

The Ozone Unit is responsible for the coordination of Jamaica's Country Programme. It also acts as a liaison between the Jamaican Government and international bodies such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Environment Canada and the United States Environment Protection Agency.

ROLE of the NOU

To create and increase national awareness on ozone depleting substances

To prepare annual reports on the consumption of ODSs in Jamaica

To facilitate timely phase out of ODS consumption through the implementation of projects  through assistance from the Multilateral Secretariat Fund.

To collaborate with the relevant ministries and agencies with respect to the establishment of policy instruments and relevant legislation concerning controls on ODSs.