Story by Tamuka Charakupa
THE Government has urged households and businesses to embrace energy-efficient appliances, amid concerns that outdated equipment still in use contains banned chemicals harmful to the environment.
Despite the enactment of Statutory Instrument 49 of 2023, which regulates the purchase of home appliances, statistics from the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife reveal that many refrigerators and air conditioners in circulation still emit chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorocarbons (HCFCs), substances that damage the ozone layer and worsen climate change.
National Ozone Unit Project Manager, Mr George Chaumba, said the government is intensifying awareness campaigns and tightening enforcement at ports of entry to curb the influx of non-compliant appliances.
“We have adopted a whole-of-government approach in enforcing Statutory Instrument 49 of 2023, because energy efficiency is no longer optional but a necessity. Reports show that nearly 80 percent of our electricity consumption comes from refrigerators and air conditioners, so ensuring that these appliances meet the required standards is critical. Enforcement is already taking place at ports of entry to stop non-compliant products from flooding the market, while we continue sensitising consumers on the benefits of efficient alternatives,” he said.
In line with the National Energy Efficiency Strategy, Mr Chaumba said embracing energy efficient appliances plays a part in reducing electricity consumption while also curbing gas emissions that threaten both human health and the ecosystem.
“As government, we are deeply concerned that some appliances still in use contain banned substances such as chlorofluorocarbons and hydrochlorocarbons. These chemicals not only damage the ozone layer but also worsen climate change. By promoting energy-efficient appliances, we aim to help citizens save electricity while protecting the environment for future generations,” he added.
Meanwhile, the need for a whole-of-stakeholder approach on consumer education is also being amplified.
“Consumer education is at the heart of protecting households from harmful and inefficient appliances. Many people buy products without checking whether they meet national standards, yet these decisions affect their electricity bills and the environment. We are therefore intensifying awareness so that every consumer knows their rights, understands product labelling, and can make informed choices that promote both savings and safety,” Consumer Protection Commission Public Relations Officer, Ms Felistas Makombe.
With the region already experiencing erratic weather patterns linked to climate change, government is rallying consumers, manufacturers and importers to play their part in creating a greener, safer future.
