Togo, Benin and Nigeria meet to discuss sulphur reduction

Stakeholders from Togo, Benin and Nigeria met on 17-18 June 2008 in Lome, Togo to discuss sulphur reduction in vehicle fuels as a means of improving urban air quality in the sub-region. The workshop, which was opened by the Deputy Minister for Environment Mr Essowè OURO-DJERI, recommended the immediate reduction of sulphur levels in diesel fuels in Togo and Benin from the current level of 10,000ppm to 5,000ppm. Further reductions in Togo of 2,000, 500 and 50ppm would be reviewed by the national inter-governmental committee that regulates the oil sector. Benin informed the meeting that they would propose sulphur reduction through stakeholder consultations. Nigeria reported they were already producing diesel at 1,330ppm sulphur level and that the import standard was at 3,000ppm. Further reductions of 50ppm would be pursued.

It emerged from the workshop that although Nigeria and Benin had vehicle import restrictions of 8 and 10 years respectively, Togo did not have any age limitation and older cars destined for Nigeria and Benin were being imported through Togo. The workshop thus recommended the harmonization of vehicle and fuels standards for the sub-region which should also be taken up to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) level. The use of vehicles fitted with catalytic converters was also recommended. Other recommendations made included increased public sensitization on the benefits of using 50ppm sulphur fuels, improved relations with the African Refiners Association (ARA) and a review of biofuels as an alternative energy source. Togo informed the workshop that they would present the issues discussed at a WHO - Francophone countries meeting for Environment and Health Ministers planned for August 2008. » More