EPA Proposes Relaxing HFC Regulations Amid Industry Divide
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed a change to regulations on hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases used in refrigerators and air conditioners. The move, which aims to balance environmental goals and economic burden, has sparked reactions from industry bodies and the previous administration.
In 2020, President Trump signed a law mandating the EPA to regulate HFCs. Now, the Biden administration has finalized this regulation, which is the target of the current proposal. The EPA wants to allow higher amounts of more polluting chemicals in certain equipment, such as cold storage in warehouses. This change could extend the use of HFCs for longer and in larger amounts, potentially worsening the climate crisis.
The proposal will undergo a 45-day public comment period after its publication in the Federal Register. Industry bodies have differing views on the proposal. The Food Industry Association has applauded the move, thanking the EPA for recognizing the need to balance environmental goals and economic burden. However, the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) opposes the proposal, citing disruptions to manufacturers' planning and investment. Meanwhile, the Trump administration is seeking to extend deadlines for complying with rules to switch to cleaner refrigerants.
The EPA's proposal to relax HFC regulations is set to impact various sectors, including residential air conditioning, retail food refrigeration, and semiconductor manufacturing. While some industry bodies welcome the move, others express concerns about its potential impact on climate change and business operations. The public will have the opportunity to comment on the proposal before it is finalized.
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