The Gambia, a COPA member since 2022, completed a two-day training course for refrigeration and air conditioning technicians organised by COPA for the first time on 12 and 13 October 2023. This initiative, which was conducted jointly with GIZ and the National Environment Agency (NEA), aimed to improve technicians' skills in the responsible use of refrigerants, with a focus on the important aspect of refrigerant recovery. 

The trainingcovered fundamental aspects of refrigeration circuits, awareness of climate issues, and the essential steps for safe refrigerant recovery. Another emphasis was put on best practices, practical exercises, and insights into alternative eco-friendly refrigerants.The training concluded with recommendations to continue and intensify similar programs, educate appliance owners on responsible practices, advocate for stricter environmental standards, and increase accessibility to recovery machines. 

This initiative played a vital role in raising awareness among technicians regarding the environmental impact of refrigerants. Therefore, it sets the stage for continued collaboration reinforcing The Gambia’s dedication to environmental preservation and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.