The global phase-out schedule for certain refrigerants, particularly HFCs, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.
The global phase-out of harmful refrigerants is accelerating under international agreements like the Montreal Protocol and Kigali Amendment. These regulations target ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and high-GWP hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) used in HVAC, refrigeration, and cooling systems worldwide.
Why Are Refrigerants Being Phased Out?
Refrigerants account for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The most problematic types include:
- CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons): Already banned under Montreal Protocol
- HCFCs (hydrochlorofluorocarbons): Currently being phased out
- HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons): Targeted by Kigali Amendment
HFCs can have global warming potentials 700-4,000 times higher than CO₂. The AIM Act mandates an 85% reduction in HFC production by 2036.
Global Phase-Out Timelines
Montreal Protocol Schedule (HCFCs)
| Year | Reduction | Affected Refrigerants |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 99.5% from baseline | R-22, R-123 |
| 2030 | 100% phase-out | All HCFCs |
Kigali Amendment Schedule (HFCs)
| Year | Reduction | Affected Refrigerants |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 40% from baseline | R-404A, R-410A, R-134a |
| 2029 | 70% from baseline | Most HFC blends |
| 2036 | 85% from baseline | All high-GWP HFCs |
EPA’s AIM Act Implementation
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is implementing the AIM Act through three key programs:
- Allowance Allocation Program: Limits HFC production/import
- Technology Transitions: Promotes alternatives like low-GWP refrigerants
- Emissions Reduction: Requires leak repair and reclamation
Sector-Specific Impacts
Commercial Refrigeration
Supermarkets must transition from R-404A (GWP 3,922) to alternatives like R-448A (GWP 1,273).
Residential HVAC
R-410A (GWP 2,088) is being replaced by R-32 (GWP 675) in new AC units.
Industrial Systems
Ammonia (R-717) and CO₂ (R-744) systems are gaining popularity for large installations.
What This Means for Businesses
The phase-out affects:
- Equipment purchases (new systems must use approved refrigerants)
- Maintenance costs (phased-out refrigerants become more expensive)
- Compliance requirements (leak detection and reporting)
For those using temperature control systems, now is the time to evaluate upgrade options. Many newer refrigerants operate at different pressures and may require system modifications.
Looking Ahead
The global transition to climate-friendly refrigerants is expected to prevent 0.5°C of warming by 2100. While the changes require upfront investment, they promise long-term benefits including:
- Lower energy consumption (many alternatives are more efficient)
- Reduced compliance risks
- Future-proofed equipment
As noted in industry analyses, early adopters of next-generation refrigerants will gain competitive advantages as regulations tighten globally.
