Sellers of ozone-depleting substances required to register with DENR - EMB

Dealers, retailers, and re-sellers of ozone-depleting substances (ODS), specifically hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are to register with the DENR's Environmental Management Bureau. Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Michael Defensor said the requirement is mandated under DENR Administrative Order 2004-08, also known as the Revised Chemical Control Order for ozone-depleting substances, and DENR

Memorandum Circular no. 2005-21.

"Only those registered with the DENR-EMB and the Department of Trade and Industry will be allowed to purchase, re-sell, distribute, and utilize ODS," Defensor said in his order. 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. It is renewable every year.

Hydrochloro-fluorocarbon is used as a cooling agent for air conditioners and refrigerators and as fire-extinguishing agent. CFCs, also known as "freon" or R-12, are mostly used as cooling agents for refrigerators, household air conditioners and car air conditioners 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 percent or a total of 2,988 metric tons. Total ban on CFC importation will take effect 2010. As for HCFCs, these may still be imported until 2040. - Jasmin R. Uy