“The role of fluorocarbons in both stratospheric ozone protection and global climate change has generated a need for governments, policymakers, and scientists to understand the scope of the industry, usage patterns, business sector volumes, and their value to society,” said Dave Stirpe, Alliance executive director.

The products analyzed by the study include HCFCs, HFCs, and the products that contain or are manufactured with the compounds such as air conditioning, refrigeration, foam insulation, and metered dose inhalers. The value to the U.S. economy is rounded out by the value of the wholesale, installation, and maintenance activities — as well as recovery, recycling, reclamation, and destruction of used refrigerants and foam blowing agents.

“These compounds and the products utilizing HCFCs and HFCs contribute greatly to the quality of life while at the same time minimizing impacts on the stratospheric ozone layer and the climate,” stated Stirpe. “Over the years, industry has improved technology in food-preserving refrigeration, air conditioning in buildings and motor vehicles, insulation systems, and other products. Businesses are working to make transitions to compounds with more environmental protection while continuing the important attributes contained in fluorocarbons such as energy efficiency, low toxicity, and nonflammability,” Stirpe said.

The 39-page study, written by Joseph M. Steed, JMS Consulting, uses public data and industry information to assess the broadly defined U.S. fluorocarbon industry. A copy of the study is available on the organization’s website, www.alliancepolicy.org.

Publication date: 7/15/2013