The Ministry of Environment has warned against bringing into Seychelles equipment, especially refrigerators and freezers, containing R-12, a substance that has been banned from being imported into the country since 2001.

According to the ministry all imports of such equipment will be confiscated by the Customs authorities.

This follows what the ministry has described as an increase in the importation into the country of refrigerators and freezers based upon the R-12 refrigerant by individual travellers, after purchasing those in shops abroad.

The ministry is therefore advising the public and all travellers that equipment (which includes refrigerators and freezers) which contain R-12 has been banned for import into the Seychelles since 2001, and with immediate effect all imports of such equipment will be confiscated by the Customs authorities.

The ministry said that there were other available refrigerators on sale, and all importers had been advised to import the right type of refrigerator for the local market.

Travellers to other countries should ensure and obtain a guarantee from the seller that the refrigerator is not based on the R-12 gas.

Members of the public and travellers who decide to buy their refrigerators or freezers from abroad are advised to seek further information from the Division of Policy, Planning & Services from the Ministry of Environment at the Botanical Gardens, where a fact sheet is available. Contact addresses are: Tel: +248 224644  Fax: +248 322945 

Email: ozoneinfo@pps.gov.sc

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