Article Index
Fluorinated gases, or F-gases, are a range of greenhouse gases widely used in refrigeration and air-conditioning, most notably hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) . They are governed in the European Union by the F-GAS Regulation, a mechanism seeking to phase them down in favour of climate-friendly refrigerants. We campaigned extensively against industry lobbying to ensure a robust and ambitious revision of the Regulation and are currently working for its swift, effective implementation.
The problem
Making the EU F-Gas Regulation a success is a key priority for European countries. It ensures compliance with the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, supports international climate commitments on greenhouse gases and leads the global transition to climate-friendly HFC-free technologies.
The Regulation stipulates a stepwise decrease in HFC use of 79 per cent by 2030. It is currently at a critical juncture, with dramatic cuts in HFC supply in 2018 and 2021 and the need for key players in the refrigeration and air-conditioning sector to move rapidly out of HFCs. Furthermore, illegal trade in HFCs into the EU is raising questions about the enforcement of the Regulation.
Enabling Activities
Institutional Strengthening