Ghana's consumption levels of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) this year exceeded the freeze levels set by the United Nations' Montreal Protocol.

The CFCs are substances used in refrigeration and air conditioning system. They are also used for blowing plastic foam, propelling liquids from aerosols and as cleaning fluids for electrical components.

Ghana consumed 47 ODP tonnes of the Ozone Depleting Substance, 11.5 ODP higher than the approved depleting level as at year 2000.

Mr Jonathan A. Allotey, Director of Inter-sector Network of the Environmental Protection Agency, said non-compliance with the reduction targets has implications including sanctions and trade restrictions by the international community in the supply of these refrigerants to Ghana.

He told a seminar for importers/ retailers of ozone-depleting substances in Accra on Tuesday that in accordance with the protocol agreement, Ghana's consumption by July 1999 should have been below 36 ODP tonnes.

"As a member of the global community, Ghana has to contribute to help curb the depleting ozone layer.

"In view of the importance that the ozone layer has to human life it is essential that we all make efforts to protect it for humanity."

Mr Allotey said although the products give some comfort in refrigeration and air conditioning, "we cannot sit down for it to deplete the ozone layer."

"The depletion of the Ozone layer is affecting crop yields, increasing hamattan, El Nino conditions, skin cancers and eye problems among others around the world," he said.

Mr Johnson Bennet Hasford, National Consultant, Ozone Depleting Substance Unit of the EPA, urged importers to ensure quality and look out for where the products were manufactured before buying.

They should also ensure clearance from the EPA before importing to avoid seizures at the country's boarders.

Dr. Rexford Osei, chairman of the function, urged the participants to co-operate with the government to bring down consumption levels.

He attributed the influx of the CFC products in Ghana to lack of proper check at the borders.