The improper handling of refrigerant gases used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems—such as CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) or HCFCs (hydrochlorofluorocarbons)—contributes to ozone depletion and global warming.
In response, the Ozone Technical Unit (UTO) of the Ministry of Production, Foreign Trade, Investments, and Fisheries (MPCEIP)—Ecuador’s Focal Point for the Montreal Protocol—the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and ESPOL are collaborating to establish Ecuador's first Pilot Center for Refrigerant Gas Regeneration.
As part of the project's milestones, the initial operational training for the Pilot Center took place on March 22 and 23. This training cycle included faculty and technicians from ESPOL, as well as guests from the Ecuadorian Technical Association of Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ATEAAR). The center is equipped with technology donated by ONUDI and will be housed in specialized facilities provided by ESPOL.
