In Doha on September 16, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change marked World Ozone Day 2026 with a ceremony led by Minister HE Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie. The event, held under the theme “Global Action for a Cooler Planet,” underscored Qatar’s commitment to environmental protection and climate sustainability, reflecting ongoing national efforts to raise awareness and promote responsible practices concerning the ozone layer.
The celebration featured an awards ceremony recognizing winners of the “Best Illustrated Short Story on Ozone Layer Protection” competition, organized jointly by the ministry and the Qatar National Library’s “Qatar Reads” initiative. Student Faisal Misfer Al Musaifri earned first place, followed by Al Maha Hisham Kazim in second and Ali Mohammed Al Marri in third. The competition aimed to engage young people in environmental issues, encouraging them to creatively explore topics such as the ozone layer’s role, the Montreal Protocol’s impact, and individual responsibilities toward sustainability.
In addition, the ministry honored students from schools that excelled in a scientific research competition focused on the Minamata Convention on Mercury, conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. Schools recognized at the preparatory level included Al-Ghuwairiya Combined School for Girls, Al-Shahaniya Preparatory School for Girls, and Al-Shamal Preparatory School for Boys. At the secondary school level, awards went to Rawda Bint Mohammed Secondary School for Girls, Qatar Technical Secondary School for Girls, and Qatar Technical Secondary School for Boys.
This year’s event also marked the tenth anniversary of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which has advanced global efforts toward sustainable cooling and the reduction of climate and environmental effects linked to refrigerant use. The anniversary highlighted the critical role of international cooperation in safeguarding the ozone layer and supporting broader climate mitigation strategies.
The ministry’s ceremony included recognition of Qatar Cool for its environmental initiative in managing and reclaiming refrigerants through a dedicated facility, illustrating the private sector’s contribution to sustainable environmental solutions and national objectives.
Through these activities, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change reaffirmed the significance of the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer as a platform to renew public awareness about protecting this atmospheric layer. The ministry emphasized the collective responsibility across sectors to adopt sustainable practices and contribute to long-term environmental stewardship in line with Qatar’s sustainable development goals.