Industry Launch Initiative to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions
AEN News
Washington - A public-private partnership initiated by the EPA
and the appliance industry will help reduce emissions that
deplete the ozone layer and contribute to climate change.
EPA and the Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute
announced an initiative that promotes the environmentally
responsible use of fluorocarbon refrigerants in the annual
manufacture of more than 8 million residential and commercial
air conditioning units and refrigeration systems.
"Promoting the responsible use of products that emit greenhouse
gases makes business sense and protects the environment,"
said Bill Wehrum acting assistant administrator for Air and
Radiation. "We have the ability to make a difference with
the appliances we use every day."
The plan will minimize emissions of two chemicals or "working fluids"
in air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment.
Hydrochlorofluorocarbons are being phased out under the Montreal
Protocol and Clean Air Act because they deplete the ozone layer.
Hydrofluorocarbons have become widely used as substitutes for
ozone depleting refrigerants and do not deplete the ozone
layer, but are strong greenhouse gases – up to 3,000 times
more potent than carbon dioxide.
The initiative builds upon guidelines developed in 2002 by
governmental and industry groups including the EPA, the
United Nations Environment Programme, Japan Ministry of
Economy, Trade and Industry and the Alliance for Responsible
Atmospheric Policy. The plan contains specific strategies
for reducing emissions during all stages of production,
including delivery, storage, the transfer of refrigerants
and system charging, testing and refrigerant recovery.
The guidelines provide a framework for protecting the
environment beyond current mandates through advanced
technologies.
In addition to the air-conditioning and refrigeration industry,
EPA is working collaboratively with many key sectors to quantify
and reduce emissions, and to promote efficient, climate and
ozone-friendly technologies in the United States and globally.
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