SA Graduates 600 Cooling Technicians in Major Push for Green Skills and Job Creation

Speaking at the graduation ceremony in Johannesburg, Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts emphasised the broader economic and environmental impact of the programme.

South Africa has marked a significant milestone in its transition to a low-emissions economy with the graduation of 600 refrigeration and air-conditioning (RAC) servicing technicians and 35 trainers, reinforcing the government’s commitment to skills development, environmental protection, and job creation.

The initiative, led by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) in partnership with international and domestic stakeholders, is part of a long-term strategy to modernise the sector while meeting global climate obligations.

Building a Green Workforce for a Low-Emissions Future

Speaking at the graduation ceremony in Johannesburg, Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts emphasised the broader economic and environmental impact of the programme.

“Skills development in the refrigeration and air-conditioning sector contributes to inclusive economic growth, job creation, and a transition towards a low-emissions economy,” she said.

The training programme equips technicians with the expertise to adopt environmentally friendly technologies, particularly as the industry shifts away from harmful refrigerants.

International Collaboration Driving National Impact

The initiative is the result of a multi-stakeholder partnership involving:

• The DFFE

• United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO)

• Department of Employment and Labour (DEL)

• Department of Higher Education and Training

• RAC industry partners

This collaboration stems from the National Implementation Strategy for RAC Service Technicians, first introduced in 2015, aimed at aligning South Africa with global environmental standards.

Phasing Out Harmful Refrigerants Under Montreal Protocol

A central focus of the programme is the phase-out of Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)—particularly HCFC-22—under the Montreal Protocol, a landmark international treaty to protect the ozone layer.

Key components of the training include:

• Certification and standardisation of servicing practices

• Adoption of low Global Warming Potential (GWP) alternatives

• Safe handling and disposal of refrigerants

The initiative also supports the reduction of Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which, while ozone-friendly, are potent greenhouse gases.

Nationwide Training with Inclusive Participation

Training sessions were conducted in Johannesburg and Durban, drawing participants from all nine provinces, ensuring national reach and inclusivity.

The programme also aligns with broader social goals, including:

• Poverty alleviation through job creation

• Quality education and technical training

• Gender equality, with increasing participation of women in the sector

Expansion Planned: 800 More Technicians Targeted

Looking ahead, the government plans to expand the programme to train an additional 800 technicians, particularly within the informal servicing sector.

This expansion aims to:

• Improve compliance with environmental standards

• Standardise industry practices

• Further reduce emissions from cooling systems

Strategic Sector Supporting Economy and Public Services

The refrigeration and air-conditioning sector plays a critical role in South Africa’s economy, underpinning:

• Food security through cold storage and supply chains

• Healthcare services, including vaccine storage

• Industrial productivity

• Safe and climate-controlled workplaces

Officials highlighted that strengthening this sector is essential for both economic resilience and climate adaptation.

Progress Toward Ambitious Climate Targets

South Africa has already made substantial progress in reducing ozone-depleting substances. The government is now on track to meet a 97.5% reduction in HCFC consumption by 2026, in line with international commitments.

“Through sustained compliance with Montreal Protocol obligations, South Africa has achieved a marked reduction in harmful substances,” Swarts said.

Ozone Protection Remains a Global Priority

The Deputy Minister stressed that protecting the ozone layer remains critical, noting that ozone depletion increases exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation, with serious consequences for:

• Human health (including skin cancer risks)

• Agricultural productivity

• Ecosystem stability

A Model for Climate-Aligned Skills Development

The graduation of these technicians represents more than a training milestone—it signals a shift toward climate-aligned workforce development, where economic growth and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.

With continued investment, international cooperation, and expanded training, South Africa is positioning itself as a regional leader in sustainable cooling technologies and green industrial transformation.