Saudi Arabia achieves 69% reduction in ozone-depleting substances, bolstering global environmental action

Saudi Arabia has achieved a significant milestone in environmental protection by reducing ozone-depleting substances by 69 percent during the first half of 2026, according to data from the National Center for Environmental Compliance. This progress underscores the nation's steadfast commitment to the Montreal Protocol and the phased elimination of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs).

Since the start of 2026, over 8,000 metric tons of ozone-depleting substances and HFCs have been successfully eliminated as part of a broader initiative to gradually phase out these harmful compounds. This reduction is a testament to the effectiveness of the national environmental compliance system in enforcing stringent regulations on the import and distribution of these substances.

Saad Al-Matrafi, a spokesperson for the National Center for Environmental Compliance, highlighted that this achievement is a direct result of enhanced regulatory oversight under the environmental clearance system. This system is designed to meticulously manage the import and circulation of ozone-depleting substances, ensuring they comply with both international commitments and local environmental standards.

Since 2023, the center has issued more than 3,200 clearance permits for substances regulated under the Montreal Protocol, further bolstering environmental compliance.

The integration of electronic systems between the National Center for Environmental Compliance and the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority has also played a crucial role in streamlining the clearance process for shipments. This technological advancement has not only expedited the regulatory procedures but also ensured a high level of environmental oversight, maintaining the integrity of the cleanup efforts.

Saudi Arabia's ratification of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol in September 2025 marks a pivotal moment in the country's environmental policy. This amendment is aimed at reducing gases with a high climate impact, aligning Saudi Arabia's efforts with global climate change mitigation strategies. Al-Matrafi emphasized that regional cooperation in protecting the ozone layer is crucial, highlighting Saudi Arabia's leadership in this critical environmental initiative.