‘Rogue refrigerants’ still in use
UNEP and ASHRAE conference in Abu Dhabi calls for quicker phase out in systems
Hydro Fluoro Carbons (HFCs) present in HVAC and refrigeration units could be brought into the Montreal Protocol to ensure their use if eliminated by 2013, following discussions at the ASRAE conference in Abu Dhabi last month.
Gathering HVACR professionals and members of ASHRAE (American Society of Refrigerating, Heating and Air-Conditioning Engineers), the two day conference was inaugurated by UAE minister of environment and water, H.E. Dr. Rashid Ahmad Bin Fahad and United Nations Environmental Programme regional officer for west Asia Dr. Adel Farid Abdel-Kader.
The calls follow global discussions on the continued use of Hydro Chloro Fluoro Carbons (HCFCs) the phase out of which was thought to have been“sped up” with an addition to the Montreal Protocol in 2007.
On more than 24 years of successful implementation, the Protocol has been gradually strengthened to cover the phase-out of nearly 100 ozone-depleting substances, UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon said. Yet experts say more needs to be done to now ensure the 2013 deadline is met.
Dr. Adel Farid Abdel-Kader, Officer Of Charge of UNEP Regional Office for West Asia, described HCFCs as 2000 times more potent than carbon dioxide and adding to global warming.
Under the moves, HVAC and refrigerant manufacturers will have to use refrigerants that have low ozone depletion potential as well as low global warming potential.
“The Minister said that it was not enough to address only ozone depletion but also how to reduce energy consumption,” Dr Eldin said.
“To that effect, we will keep our efforts on and explore how to achieve the target through collaboration and discussion with key stakeholders within and outside the ASHRAE fold. Ultimately, we would like the discussions to as much contribute to Abu Dhabi’s grand 2030 Vision.”
