Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Michael Defensor is reminding dealers, retailers and re-sellers of ozone-depleting substances (ODS), specifically hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), to register with the DENR’s Environmental Management Bureau. The requirement is mandated under DENR Administrative Order 2004-08, also known as the Revised Chemical Control Order for ODS, and DENR Memorandum Circular no. 2005-21.

“Only those registered with the DENR-EMB and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will be allowed to purchase, re-sell, distribute and utilized for allowable uses of ODS,” Defensor said.

The mandatory registration is a system of accreditation to define the capability of an individual in handling the substances. The Certificate of Registration which will be given to eligible dealers, retailers and re-sellers is valid for one year, renewable every year.

Hydrochlorofluorocarbons are used as cooling agent for aircons and refrigerators and as fire-extinguishing agent. CFCs, also known as “freon” or R-12, are mostly used as cooling agents for refrigerators, household aircons and car aircons manufactured before 1999.

The DENR has been gradually reducing the importation of CFCs in the country. As of 2005, the importation of CFC-12 has already been cut down by 50% or a total of 2,988 metric tons. Total ban on CFC importation will take effect 2010. As for HCFCs, they may still be imported until 2040.

For more information on the procedures for registration of ODS, please call EMB at telephone numbers (02) 928-4696 and (02) 928-1244.