About Regional Networks of National Ozone Units

The Regional Networks of National Ozone Units (NOUs) under the Multilateral Fund are a path-breaking mechanism for North-South and South-South cooperation, as intended in the Bali Strategic Plan.

Networking provides a platform for NOUs from Article 5 countries to exchange experiences, develop their skills and tap the expertise of their peers in both developing and developed countries. Conducted at the regional level, the Networking activity builds the Ozone Officers' skills for implementing and managing their national ODS phase-out activities.

Networking comprises:

• Annual and follow-up workshops
• Regular communication between UNEP and the Ozone Officers to provide information and assistance in resolving any difficulties encountered.
• Thematic and contact group meetings
• Country-to-country cooperation.
  

The Networks are administered on a day-to-day basis by Regional Network Coordinators who are based in UNEP's Regional Offices in Thailand, Bahrain, Mexico and Nairobi, and also at UNEP DTIE Paris. The Networking activity is managed by the Network and Policy Manager based at UNEP DTIE in Paris, France.

Networking activities have resulted in improved data reporting, policy making, refrigerant management plans and the development of peer pressure among ODS Officers to take early steps to implement the Montreal Protocol.

Networking Counts - Montreal Protocol Experiences in Making Multilateral Environmental Agreements Work Read about the achievements and benefits of Regional Networking

The OzonAction Programme currently operates nine regional Networks comprising 148 developing and 14 developed countries. The Southeast Asia and the Pacific Network operates with assistance provided by the Government of Sweden.