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The level of awareness and product knowledge of service stakeholders in the importation and distribution of HCFC-22 in Botswana

Bongayi Kudoma

Ozone depletion, global warming and climate change remain global issues of concern, with detrimental impacts on both human health and the environment. The consumption and release of ozone depleting substances (ODS) into the atmosphere are the main cause of ozone depletion. One such common anthropogenic ODS with high global warming potential which is is Chlorodifluoromethane (HCFC-22). The MP set to phase-out HCFC-22 with mandatory timelines and cut-off dates for its use by 2040 for Article 5 countries. To meet the HCFC-22 phase-out timelines, aimed at embarking on national communications to disseminate information on the implementation process through capacitation of raising key stakeholdersâ?? awareness, training and information exchange. The success of HCFC-22 phase-out strategy greatly depends on the participation of key stakeholders in the implementation process. The purpose of this study isthe level of awareness and product knowledge of stakeholders in the importation and distribution of HCFC-22 in Botswana. MethodologyFindings: Questionnaire and interview results revealed that the level of HCFC-22 knowledge and awareness among stakeholders is moderate with notable inter-group variations. In particular, consumers had higher levels of HCFC-22 knowledge and awareness than other stakeholders, indicating gaps in awareness raising and training. The bulk (87%) of the stakeholders is well educated and experienced in ODS related service provision. Conclusion and Significance: This suggests that there are still gaps in information dissemination to key stakeholders and this remains a crucial discrepancy between the countryâ??s HPMP success lead and lag indicators. Recommendation: Of note to the study is the fact that the frequency of awareness-raising initiatives is not sufficient as prescribed by the HPMP and these needs to be increased to make an impact. There is need to carefully select the communication media used in line with the media consumption habits of target markets. Awareness raising must start from the grassroots in the community.