Environment Canada announced that it is moving forward with regulatory measures to limit the growth of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). It has published a Notice of Intent to Regulate Hydrofluorocarbons in the Canada Gazette outlining the scope of the proposed measures for HFCs, which are considered potent greenhouse gases.
HVACR industry associations, manufacturers, end users, and fluorocarbon producers met with senior White House officials to show support and voluntary commitments to phase down HFCs. Industry coalition the Alliance for Responsible Atmospheric Policy and the White House hosted the event Sept. 16 at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building.
For service technicians and contractors, the key is to be aware of next-generation equipment coming down the road, any differing servicing techniques that might be required, and the fact that like-for-like equipment may not be easily changed out, even if a customer requests it.
As consensus builds for a European agreement on regulating emissions of f-gases, Shecco has launched its newest publication, the “GUIDE+: HFC Taxes & Fiscal Incentives for Natural Refrigerants in Europe.”
President Obama’s Climate Action Plan announced during the summer included a specific reference to global warming potential (GWP) issues related to a number of hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants commonly used by contractors in the HVACR industry.
A widespread ban of HFCs has been recommended to the European Parliament by the F-Gas Regulation review’s rapporteur, Bas Eickhout, Dutch Green MEP, who has also called for a series of significant amendments to the European Commission’s proposal, published late last year.
The ever-changing world of refrigeration equipment regulations is getting an update. A recently published white paper addresses a variety of topics, including new Energy Star standards, new legislation affecting refrigerated display cases, and required certifications for commercial foodservice equipment.
With supplies of some refrigerants dwindling, costs rising, and recordkeeping and venting regulations in place, the need for careful refrigerant management is needed more than ever. That being the case, more and more manufacturers are coming out with products to address the need.