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Greenhouse gases from ACs: Europe earmarks 2050 total phase-out
European Parliament approves new rules that will minimise emissions from powerful greenhouses gases
16 January 2024, 3:36pm
Matthew Vella
Matthew Vella
2 min read
Fluorinated greenhouse gases used in refrigerators and air-conditioning are man-made greenhouse gases (GHG) with high global warming potential
457 MEPs voted in favour of a deal reached with the Council to further cut emissions from fluorinated gases (92 against, 32 abstentions).
The text foresees a total phase-out of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by 2050, as well as a plan to reduce the EU consumption quota between 2024-2049.
The deal includes strict requirements that prohibit placing on the EU market products containing F-gases, and specific phase-out dates for the use of F-gases when it is technologically and economically feasible to switch to alternatives for domestic refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pumps.
“Putting an end to F-gases is crucial, not only because these gases are extremely harmful for the climate, but we are also providing clarity and investment certainty for industry. European companies are already at the forefront of developing clean alternatives to F-gases, so this law will be good for the climate and the European economy, said Dutch rapporteur Bas Eickhout (Greens).
Fluorinated greenhouse gases, such as hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, sulphur hexafluoride and nitrogen trifluoride – used in refrigerators, air-conditioning, heat pumps, fire protection, foams or electrical switchgear equipment – and ozone-depleting substances, such as halons, used in fire extinguishers, methyl bromide, used to control pests, and HFCs used in fridges and air-conditioning systems are man-made greenhouse gases (GHG) with high global warming potential.
Another deal on reducing emissions of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) was adopted with 538 votes in favour, eight against and 13 abstentions. The law introduces requirements to recover and recycle such substances in building materials during renovations, found in particular in insulation foams, which is the main source of remaining ODS emissions in the EU.
It also introduces strict exemptions for their use as feedstock to produce other substances, for example in the pharmaceutical or chemical industry, as process agents, in laboratories and for fire protection.
Swedish MEP Jessica Polfjärd (EPP) said: “The prevention of emissions from ozone-depleting substances is key in preventing adverse health and environmental effects resulting from a damaged ozone layer and contributing to greenhouse gas savings in line with the Union’s climate target.”
Following the final votes in plenary, the Council will now have to formally endorse the texts before their publication in the EU Official Journal.
This article is part of a content series called Ewropej. This is a multi-newsroom initiative part-funded by the European Parliament to bring the work of the EP closer to the citizens of Malta and keep them informed about matters that affect their daily lives. This article reflects only the author’s view. The action was co-financed by the European Union in the frame of the European Parliament's grant programme in the field of communication. The European Parliament was not involved in its preparation and is, in no case, responsible for or bound by the information or opinions expressed in the context of this action. In accordance with applicable law, the authors, interviewed people, publishers or programme broadcasters are solely responsible. The European Parliament can also not be held liable for direct or indirect damage that may result from the implementation of the action.
Matthew Vella, a freelance journalist at MaltaToday, was formerly executive editor at Malt...
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