Qatar’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) observed World Ozone Day 2026 on September 16, reinforcing the country’s dedication to protecting the ozone layer and advancing sustainable cooling solutions. The event was held under the patronage of HE Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, who emphasized the significance of international collaboration in addressing ozone depletion and climate change.

This year’s observance followed the global theme “Global Action for a Cooler Planet,” highlighting the link between ozone protection and climate mitigation efforts. The ceremony included recognition of students who excelled in the ministry’s competitions promoting environmental awareness. Among the winners was Faisal Misfer al-Misafri, who secured first place in the “Best Illustrated Short Story on Ozone Layer Protection” contest, organised jointly with Qatar Reads, a Qatar National Library initiative. Other top participants were Al Maha Hisham Kazem and Ali Mohamed al-Marri, placing second and third respectively.

Further acknowledgments were given to students from schools that succeeded in the scientific research competition on the Minamata Convention on Mercury, an event held in partnership between the Ministry of Education and Higher Education and MoECC. In the preparatory category, Al Ghuwariyah Joint Girls School achieved first place, followed by Al Shahaniya Preparatory Girls School and Al Shamal Preparatory Boys School. For the secondary category, Rawdat Bent Mohamed Secondary Girls School won first place, with Qatar Technical Secondary Girls School and Qatar Technical Secondary Boys School placing second and third.

The occasion also marked the 10th anniversary of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, an international agreement that strengthened measures to reduce the environmental and climate impact of refrigerants by promoting sustainable cooling technologies. Qatar Cool, a private sector company, was recognised for its efforts in refrigerant management and reclamation through its specialised refrigerant gas reclamation facility, showcasing the role of the private sector in environmental sustainability.

Throughout the event, the ministry reiterated Qatar’s commitment to the Vienna Convention and Montreal Protocol frameworks. Officials reiterated ongoing national efforts to enhance environmental education, foster sustainability, and support global climate protection initiatives.