Students urged to be ‘Ozone Heroes’

Students have been challenged to become "Ozone Heroes" by making informed choices and spreading awareness about protecting the Earth’s vital shield.

This was the key message from Director of Environment Senimili Baleicakau during the World Ozone Day celebration at FMF Gymnasium, Laucala Bay, on Tuesday, marking 40 years since the Vienna Convention adoption.

Ms Baleicakau told students from five Suva schools that they can make a difference by encouraging families to buy ozone-friendly products and reducing their carbon footprint.

“Be an informed consumer. Encourage your families to purchase ozone-friendly products.

“Look for labels that indicate appliances like refrigerators and air-conditioners do not use hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs),” she said.

The event, themed “Science leading to global action,” brought together students, refrigeration technicians, and energy experts to showcase how scientific discovery leads to community action.

Ms Baleicakau explained that Fiji has successfully phased out chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and is actively reducing HCFCs, with complete phase-out planned by 2030.

She urged students to embrace the 3Rs - Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle - and consider careers in environmental science to tackle future challenges.

Year 11 student Meemona Hijaz from Suva Muslim College embraced the message, saying: “We should all be working towards the ozone depletion and reduce the effects of all those things like HCFCs and actually use the alternatives.”

The 17-year-old, who has loved science since childhood, expressed interest in pursuing scientific studies and participating in the World Ozone Day poster competition.

The poster design competition, themed “Science to Policy Action,” offers prizes of $300 for first place, $200 for second, and $100 for third.

Winners will be announced on September 24 on the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Facebook page.

Ms Baleicakau highlighted that the healing ozone layer proves collective action can reverse environmental damage.

“The healing of the ozone layer is a beacon of hope, demonstrating that our collective actions can reverse environmental damage,” she said.

The celebration included exhibition booths showcasing ozone science displays and trade demonstrations.

Students from the following schools participated in the event: Suva Grammar High School, Suva Sangam College, Suva Muslim College, Ballantine High School, and Sacred Heart College.

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