Saudi Arabia Cuts Ozone-Depleting Substances by 69% in H1 2026

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia achieved a 69% reduction in the consumption of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) in the first half of 2026, according to the National Center for Environmental Compliance (NCEC). This milestone underscores the Kingdom’s steadfast commitment to the Montreal Protocol and its phased transition away from hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). The NCEC reported that over 8,000 metric tons of ODS and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) have been safely managed since the beginning of the year, ensuring regulated import and handling in line with environmental requirements and international obligations.

Context and Background

The Montreal Protocol, adopted in 1987, is a landmark international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production and consumption of substances responsible for ozone depletion. Saudi Arabia has been an active participant, progressively reducing its reliance on ODS. The recent achievement aligns with the Kingdom’s broader environmental agenda under Vision 2030, which emphasizes sustainability, environmental stewardship, and international cooperation. The NCEC’s regulatory oversight through an environmental permitting system has been pivotal, with more than 3,200 permits issued since 2023 for the import of substances controlled under the Montreal Protocol, enhancing compliance and ensuring adherence to established quotas and volumes.

Key Details

Saad Al-Matrafi, spokesperson for the NCEC, highlighted that this progress coincided with intensified regulatory monitoring facilitated by electronic integration between the NCEC and the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority. This integration has accelerated customs clearance procedures for shipments, improving service efficiency while upholding environmental control standards. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia ratified the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol in September 2025, a significant step toward reducing emissions of potent climate-warming gases. Al-Matrafi emphasized that this reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting international efforts against climate change and underscored that Gulf cooperation in ozone protection strengthens regional initiatives and showcases the Kingdom’s leadership in this field.

Implications and Impact

The reduction in ODS consumption not only demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s compliance with global environmental treaties but also sets a precedent for other nations in the region. By modernizing its regulatory framework and fostering inter-agency collaboration, the Kingdom is enhancing its reputation as an environmental leader. The ratification of the Kigali Amendment positions Saudi Arabia to contribute significantly to global climate action, as HFCs are potent greenhouse gases with high global warming potential. This move also opens avenues for technological innovation and investment in environmentally friendly alternatives, aligning with the Kingdom’s economic diversification goals.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This achievement directly supports Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes environmental sustainability and the responsible use of resources. By actively reducing ozone-depleting substances and embracing international protocols, the Kingdom is not only safeguarding the environment but also fostering a green economy, attracting investments in clean technologies, and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens and future generations. The forward-looking approach exemplifies Saudi Arabia’s commitment to playing a pivotal role in global environmental governance and building a sustainable future.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the Montreal Protocol?

A1. The Montreal Protocol is an international environmental treaty adopted in 1987 to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production and consumption of substances that deplete it, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs).

Q2. What are ozone-depleting substances (ODS)?

A2. Ozone-depleting substances are chemicals that damage the Earth’s protective ozone layer, including CFCs, HCFCs, halons, and methyl bromide. They are commonly used in refrigeration, air conditioning, foams, and solvents.

Q3. What is the National Center for Environmental Compliance (NCEC)?

A3. The NCEC is a Saudi governmental body responsible for enforcing environmental laws and regulations, including monitoring and permitting the use of substances that may harm the environment, ensuring compliance with national and international standards.

Q4. What was Saudi Arabia’s ODS reduction percentage in the first half of 2026?

A4. Saudi Arabia achieved a 69% reduction in the consumption of ozone-depleting substances in the first half of 2026, relative to its baseline, demonstrating significant progress in meeting Montreal Protocol commitments.

Q5. How many metric tons of ODS were managed in 2026?

A5. Over 8,000 metric tons of ozone-depleting substances and hydrofluorocarbons were managed in the first half of 2026 under the project to phase out these substances, ensuring their regulated import and handling.

Q6. What is the Kigali Amendment?

A6. The Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, adopted in 2016, aims to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are potent greenhouse gases, thereby mitigating their impact on climate change. Saudi Arabia ratified it in September 2025.

Q7. When did Saudi Arabia ratify the Kigali Amendment?

A7. Saudi Arabia ratified the Kigali Amendment in September 2025, reflecting its commitment to reducing emissions of hydrofluorocarbons and supporting global climate action.

Q8. How many permits for ODS import were issued since 2023?

A8. The NCEC has issued more than 3,200 permits for the import of substances controlled under the Montreal Protocol since 2023, ensuring compliance with quotas and volumes.

Q9. What role does electronic integration play in environmental compliance?

A9. Electronic integration between the NCEC and the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority streamlines customs procedures, enhances service efficiency, and ensures that imported goods meet environmental standards.

Q10. Who is Saad Al-Matrafi?

A10. Saad Al-Matrafi is the spokesperson for the National Center for Environmental Compliance, providing official information about the center’s activities and achievements.

Q11. What is the significance of the 69% reduction?

A11. This reduction demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s effective implementation of the Montreal Protocol, showcasing its commitment to protecting the ozone layer and contributing to global environmental sustainability.

Q12. How does this achievement align with Vision 2030?

A12. Vision 2030 emphasizes environmental sustainability and resource efficiency. This achievement supports those goals by promoting responsible chemical management, thus contributing to a greener economy and improved quality of life.

Q13. What are hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)?

A13. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are synthetic gases used in refrigeration and air conditioning as replacements for ozone-depleting substances. They do not deplete the ozone layer but are potent greenhouse gases, so their phase-down is crucial for climate change mitigation.

Q14. How does Saudi Arabia regulate ODS?

A14. Saudi Arabia regulates ODS through the NCEC, which issues permits for import, monitors compliance, and ensures that companies follow environmental laws and international treaty obligations.

Q15. What is the role of the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority?

A15. The Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority collaborates with the NCEC to control imports of ODS, ensuring that customs clearance processes are efficient and that goods meet environmental standards.

Q16. What is the Ozone Layer?

A16. The ozone layer is a region of Earth’s stratosphere that absorbs most of the Sun’s harmful ultraviolet radiation. Protecting it is essential for human health and the environment.

Q17. Why is Saudi Arabia’s ratification of the Kigali Amendment important?

A17. Ratifying the Kigali Amendment aligns Saudi Arabia with global efforts to reduce super-polluting greenhouse gases, enhancing its role as a responsible global citizen and supporting international climate goals.

Q18. What are examples of ozone-depleting substances?

A18. Common ozone-depleting substances include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, carbon tetrachloride, and methyl chloroform. These chemicals are used in aerosols, refrigerants, and foam blowing agents.

Q19. How does this reduction benefit Saudi Arabia?

A19. Reducing ODS consumption improves environmental health, reduces health risks from UV radiation, and positions Saudi Arabia as a leader in environmental stewardship, potentially attracting green investments and enhancing its international image.

Q20. What can other countries learn from Saudi Arabia’s approach?

A20. Other countries can learn from Saudi Arabia’s integrated regulatory approach, which combines robust enforcement, digital integration, and international cooperation to effectively manage ODS and advance environmental sustainability.

---