30 April 2014
Vol. XIV
In this issue
1. What a Gas! Arctic's Ozone Hole Looking Good
2. F-Gas Set to Change the Face of Cooling in Europe, the World
3. Human Health and the Environment - UNEP Post 2015 Note #3
4. Blowing Agents Market - Trends and Forecasts to 2019
5. UNIDO Air-conditioning Technology to Serve Africa, West Asia
6. Rwanda Environment Management Authority Takes Steps to
Check Spread of Dangerous Gases
7. NZ to Phase out Imports of Ozone-Depleting Substances
8. Confiscation of Hazardous Substances Ordered (Pakistan)
9. Air-Con Maker Keen to Help Environment (Japan)
10. Impacts of Leakage from Refrigerants in Heat Pumps (UK)
11. Response to “Refreshingly Cool, Potentially Toxic”
12. BTVI Students Receive International Certification (Bahamas)
13. US Sets Subsidy Rates on Chinese R134a
A Warm Welcome to Dr Ligia Noronha, who Joined the
United Nations Environment Programme, Division of
Technology, Industry and Economics (UNEP DTIE), Paris, France,
on 21 April 2014 as the New Director
GLOBAL
1. What a Gas! Arctic's Ozone Hole Looking Good
With a boost from Mother Nature, the worldwide ban [sic] on ozone-depleting chemicals stopped Arctic ozone
from disappearing and forming an "ozone hole" similar in size to Antarctica's, a new study finds.
"It seems like we did just the right thing at the right time," said Susan Solomon, an atmospheric chemist at MIT
and lead study author. "It's quite a success story."
Looking back at some 50 years of Arctic ozone records, Solomon and her co-authors found no evidence
that Arctic ozone levels have dropped to the extremes seen above Antarctica. Though described as a "hole," the
area over Antarctica actually represents the partial to complete disappearance of Earth's protective ozone layer.
This protective ozone layer has yet to vanish above the Arctic.
But it turns out that Arctic ozone is protected by more than just environmental limits, the study also finds.
Natural differences between the Arctic and Antarctica, including warmer temperatures over the Arctic, different
geographies and different sunlight amounts, kept ozone above the North Pole from disappearing as quickly it
did above the South Pole.
"The main difference is a few degrees of extra cold temperature," Solomon told Live Science. "Antarctica really
is the coldest place on Earth. The few degrees of extra cooling make a big difference in how effectively you
destroy ozone."
The findings were published today [April 14] in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Ozone in the stratosphere helps block damaging ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation from the sun. The stratosphere
is the layer of Earth's atmosphere above the one humans live in, which is called the troposphere.
The ozone-destroying chemicals are chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), banned in 1987 by the Montreal Protocol.
Manufacturers had used CFCs in aerosols like hairspray, as well as in air conditioners, refrigerators and cleaning
solvents.
Researchers confirmed the link between the recurring Antarctic ozone hole and CFCs in the early 1980s. The
chemicals linger for decades in the atmosphere, slowing recovery of ozone, which is constantly made and
destroyed in the stratosphere. Chlorine from CFCs tilts this chemistry more toward destruction.
Solomon and her co-authors compared how CFCs attack protective ozone in different layers of the atmosphere
above the Arctic and Antarctica. One of the biggest Arctic ozone losses in 30 years, in 2011, sparked the study.
Unusually cold temperatures in the Arctic drove that loss.
The researchers compared the 2011 Arctic extreme to conditions in Antarctica, and also looked at ozone data
extending back to the 1960s.
The lowest ozone concentrations occur when air temperatures are minus 112 degrees to minus 121 degrees
Fahrenheit (minus 80 degrees to minus 85 degrees Celsius), the researchers found. These extremely cold
temperatures are closely linked with low nitric acid levels in the air, a key step in the chemical chain that destroys
ozone, the study shows. And such bitter cold is much more common above Antarctica.
"You just don't get down to these cold temperatures in the Arctic," Solomon said.
LiveScience, 14 April 2014, By: Becky Oskin
2. F-Gas Set to Change the Face of Cooling in Europe, the World
The Council of the European Union formally adopted the text of the revised F-Gas Regulation this week. This
marks the last remaining legal hurdle for the new regulations, and once the translation work is done for all
European Union member states, it will pass into EU law, taking effect Jan. 1, 2015.
While the Council's adoption procedure in Brussels was a pretty low-key affair, it marks a significant moment
for the cooling industry, in that it sets out a program for moving away from HFCs almost completely.
We should not underestimate what a big deal this is for European refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pumps,
since HFCs form the overwhelming majority of the industry's current refrigerant armory. While natural
refrigerants — in the shape of carbon dioxide and hydrocarbons — are gaining in traction among supermarkets,
they are still dwarfed by the volume of HFCs in the market.
Unlike the United States, R22 is no longer an option for Europe, as the ozone-depleting substances regulations
will prevent their sale — even in recycled form — after Dec 31.
If anybody reading outside Europe thinks this will remain a regional decision only, think again. The political
forces behind the regulation have made it no secret that they believe this should set an example for the rest of the
world to follow.
"This legislation will substantially reduce emissions from these extremely
powerful greenhouse gases, while spurring technological development and
innovation in the European industry," EU Climate Commissioner Connie
Hedegaard said recently. "I also hope that this agreement will give renewed
political momentum to come to a global agreement on phasing down fluorinated
gases under the Montreal protocol." […]
The proposed exit from HFCs by the EU will see a cut of 79 percent in HFC
production by 2030, a longer-term plan that is widely thought by the industry
to give sufficient time to prepare alternatives — whether that be natural refrigerants or the new generation of
HFO.
However, it is the shorter-term plan that provides the more radical prospects, since the regulations will effectively
usher in a new generation of lower-GWP refrigerant, while sounding the death-knell for a clutch of popular
current ones, such as R404A and R507A.
When we consider that in Europe, R404A accounts for up to half of HFC consumption on a GWP-weighted basis,
it is clear that the change required will be a significant one. The way in which this change is being made to place
is also significant — via the introduction of a range of bans that set out to reduce the use of high-global-warming
refrigerants.
Both environmental and political commentators alike have applauded the way that the European regulators have
set out to direct the cooling industry in this way, rather than a more hands-off approach from the regulators.
Following the much-heated debate by politicians, the final plan will see the industry given a reasonable run-in
for implementation of their low-GWP strategies. The early focus will be on dissuading use of the above-2500
GWP refrigerants, and thus we will certainly see a range of "lower-GWP" measures, in the shape of HFCs that
are not as high in GWP as the ones they replace.
But, nevertheless, plans will need to be made by industry and end-users alike for procurement and operation
strategies based on lowering the GWP of the refrigerants they use.
The majority of the bans on higher-GWP refrigerant will relate to new equipment, rather than existing estates,
but there is also a "service ban" that calls for prohibition of refrigerants above 2500 GWP in any service and
maintenance setting.
The fact that this ban kicks in as soon as 2020 for the sort of large systems used by supermarkets and the like
(referred to in the regs as "above 40 tons CO2 equivalent") means that end users with R404A in their estates will
need to make some pretty swift plans on replacing it with a lower-GWP solution.
In the U.K., for instance, a number of the national supermarket chains have now set in place major retrofit
programs that are seeing R404A systematically replaced throughout the estate.
Perhaps not surprisingly, the refrigerant manufacturers are busy trying to promote the merits of their particular
solution, whether it be R407A, R407F or R442A. In practice, these replacements also offer improved efficiency
in the system as well as a lower GWP.
A number of industry associations have expressed concern that there are still details to be worked out around the
legislation, particularly around training and certification, and there is still clearly work to do on implementation
at a national level. But for its part, the European Commission has signalled its intention to see these refrigerant
regulations put into practice.
Just this week, the EC issued infringement proceedings against the Polish government for not implementing a
national plan on F-gas registration, or a scheme of penalties for companies not complying, presumably in a bid
to get the Polish house in order for the revised regulations.
The plans for Europe — and potentially for a global phasedown — are given a new urgency by this month's report
from the United Nations climate scientists, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The IPCC calls for
"collective and significant global action" to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in order to keep global warming
below 2 degrees C.
The report concludes that "the longer we wait, the more expensive and technologically challenging meeting this
goal will be." It seems clear in this context that the heat will be on countries around the world to phase down their
HFCs as quickly as practical.
And this "practical" element seems likely to be the source of much discussion.
MultiBriefs, 17 April 2014, By: Andrew Gaved
See also >>>
Council of the European Union, Press Release 14 April 2014 E | F
3. Human Health and the Environment - UNEP Post 2015 Note #3
Ensuring a clean and healthy environment,
through
effective
environmental
management, will provide multiple
benefits to society and the economy.
Experts have estimated that nearly onequarter of all diseases and deaths are due
to hazards from unhealthy living and
working environments1. Air pollution,
inadequate management of chemicals and
wastes, poor water quality, ecosystem
degradation, climate change and ozone
layer depletion all pose significant threats
to human health both individually and
combined.
AIR POLLUTION
The largest impacts of indoor air pollution are seen in developing countries, where almost three billion people
rely on solid fuels, traditional biomass and coal, and open fires or traditional stoves for cooking and heating 3.
Approximately 4.3 million people a year die prematurely from illness attributable to household air pollution
caused by the inefficient use of solid fuels. Over half of the deaths from acute lower respiratory infections among
children less than 5 years old are due to air pollution from household solid fuels4- In addition, 3.7 million deaths
can be attributed to outdoor air pollution5 of which transport, energy production and industry are major sources.
These recent findings more than double previous estimates and confirms that air pollution is now the world’s
largest single environmental health risk.
Reducing air pollution could save millions of lives.
CHEMICAL AND WASTE EXPOSURE
Most impacts from unsafe chemical use and unsound waste disposal occur in situations of poverty6 The poor
face these risks because of their occupations, living standards and lack of knowledge about the effects of
exposure. Almost all deaths from pesticide exposure occur in developing countries.7
The management of electronic waste, the fastest growing waste stream in the world8, is a challenge. E-waste
contains hazardous substances – including heavy metals such as mercury and lead, and substances that disrupt
the hormone system – affecting human growth, reproduction and neurological development 9. However, they
also contain many strategic metals such as gold, palladium and rare earth metals, which can be recovered and
recycled.
WATER-RELATED ILLNESSES
Water-related diseases are another major concern: over half the world’s hospital beds are occupied by people
suffering from such illnesses.10 Diarrhoeal diseases cause over four per cent of the global disease burden, 90 per
cent of these cases are linked to environmental pollution and lack of access to safe drinking water and
sanitation.11
Diarrhoeal disease, although preventable and treatable, is the second leading cause of death in children under
five, with nearly 1.7 billion cases and 760,000 deaths annually.12 Salinization of overexploited aquifers,
especially in coastal areas, is a further challenge. One recent study found that salinization causes hypertension
and (pre) eclampsia, the latter accounting for direct maternal deaths, stillbirths, neonatal deaths and a series of
long-term neurological disabilities.13
ECOSYSTEM DEGRADATION AND MALNUTRITION
Ecosystem degradation has multiple detrimental effects on human health, including on food security and
resulting malnutrition. A recent survey by the International Soil Reference and Information Centre (ISRIC)
found that almost one fifth of cropland is degraded resulting in lower food production and approximately 1.5
billion people depend directly on these degraded areas.14 Today, 842 million people are undernourished, the vast
majority (827 million) in developing countries.15 About 45 per cent of all child deaths are linked to
malnutrition.16
CLIMATE CHANGE AND OZONE
Climate change is not only an important global environmental challenge, it is also a significant threat to public
health. Although it may have some localised beneficial effects on human health, such as fewer winter deaths in
temperate climates and increased food production in certain areas, most effects are expected to be negative. 17
Climate change affects concentrations of fine particulate matter and ozone in the air which contributes to
cardiovascular and respiratory diseases with the latter affecting particularly children, elderly and people with
vulnerable immune systems. A 2013 study indicates that 21st century climate change will increase premature
deaths associated with PM2.5 by approximately 100,000 and from respiratory disease associated with ozone by
6,300 deaths annually18. Ozone is the air pollutant most consistently projected to increase under future climate
change and this has been linked to increased occurrences of asthma in children19. Every year, weather-related
disasters result in over 60,000 deaths, mainly in developing countries and this will continue to increase20. Floods
and increasingly variable rainfall patterns are likely to affect fresh water supplies, with negative health
consequences. Climate variability and change plays a powerful role in the occurrence and spread of diseases
worldwide. People in many areas are at an increasing risk of vector-borne diseases, such as malaria, dengue
fever and other tropical disease.
Stratospheric ozone protects humans and other organisms because it absorbs ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation
from the sun. Its depletion has led to heightened exposure to UV-B radiation increasing the risk of skin cancer,
cataracts and suppression of the immune system. Excessive UV-B exposure can also damage terrestrial plant
life, single-cell organisms and aquatic ecosystems.
INTEGRATED SOLUTIONS
Switching to cleaner fuels and alternative sources of energy, and more efficient production and use of fuels and
energy, are effective ways to address air pollution exposures and thereby improve health. Implementing these
will accrue other benefits, including more time for income-generating activities, reduced health risks from
carrying heavy loads of firewood over long distances, reduced deforestation, greater access to affordable
transport, particularly public transport, increased access to modern energy services and a reduction in black
carbon – a global warming substance – and other greenhouse gases.
To protect human health and the environment and to benefit fully and safely from chemicals, sound chemicals
management should be advanced worldwide by: developing comprehensive chemicals management strategies;
mainstreaming chemicals management into national public health, social and economic development
programmes; regulating and reducing the use of chemicals of highest concern and substituting them with safer
alternatives; integrating and coordinating international and intergovernmental programmes to increase synergies
and effectiveness; and developing new national and international approaches to financing sound chemicals
management.
Controls implemented under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer have enabled
the global community to avoid millions of cases of fatal skin cancer and tens of millions of cases of non-fatal
skin cancer and cataracts. For example, the United States estimates that by the year 2065, efforts to protect the
ozone layer will have prevented more than 6.3 million skin cancer deaths in the nation and saved an estimated
US$4.2 trillion in healthcare costs over the period 1990–2065. In addition, more than 22 million Americans
born between 1985 and 2100 would avoid suffering from cataracts.21 Phase out of the remaining ozone-depleting
substances (ODSs), particularly hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), and ensuring sound management of
existing ODSs captured in buildings and equipment will not only protect the ozone layer and human health but
also contribute to mitigating climate change, as ODSs are also potent greenhouse gases. In this phase-out
process, opportunities exist to make technology choices that are climate friendly. Sustainable land and forest
management, along with conservation and restoration, will protect and enhance biodiversity and ecosystem
services. This will lead to improved rain infiltration, increased water storage and availability, more biomass,
and greater food security thus reducing malnutrition. Sustainable management practices will reduce pressures
on land and the need to convert forests and rangelands to cropland. These restorative activities will not only
ensure food security, but also a clean and healthy environment to nurture cultural, social and recreational
activities important to our mental health, and economic growth for local populations and businesses.
Options for reducing water-related diseases include: restoring catchments and improving wastewater
management; improving water quality by raising service standards; promoting innovative low-cost and lowcarbon technologies; and providing robust and effective water governance through more effective institutions
and administrative systems. Protecting water quality from all sources of wastewater pollution – domestic,
industrial or agricultural – is essential for sustainable development, human wellbeing and ecosystem health.
Measures to reduce impacts from climate change can address threats to public health, with additional multiple
benefits. For example, the Urban Heat Island Initiative of the City of Chicago serves to educate the public, local
businesses and government about the measures that can be taken to cool the city. It includes the use of light
covered surfaces for buildings and roads, as well as the planting of urban trees and gardens in strategic locations
to reduce heat generation and cooling costs. Sustainable wetlands management can anticipate the expected
increase in water-born vectors such as malaria. Furthermore, effective use of climate information can help
address health impacts. Closer collaboration between the meteorological, public health and environmental
authorities can provide communities and relevant health institutions with tools to identify elevated risks, take
preventive measures and plan effective responses. To conclude, providing a clean and healthy environment now and for future generations – will reduce mortality, improve human health and well-being and lead to
substantial savings in associated healthcare costs.
References can be found at: http://www.unep.org/post2015
UNEP, April 2014
4. Blowing Agents Market - Trends and Forecasts to 2019
The growth in global polymer foam industry us is driving the demand in blowing agents
industry. Additionally, the major suppliers are responding towards the phase-out of CFCs
and HCFCs by providing wide variety of alternative blowing agents and maintaining their
supply globally. The major polymeric foam industry utilizing practically all types of
blowing agents is polyurethane foams industry.
The blowing agents market has great growth potential. The market is expected to grow at a
compound annual growth rate of 5.8%, over the next five years and reach 452 kilotons by
2019. Asia-Pacific, with its thriving economies and rapidly expanding manufacturing bases,
is expected to experience highest consumption during the next five years.
The growing demand for polyurethane foams and high growth in Asia-Pacific region is expected to remain the
driving force for blowing agents demand in long run. However, the frequent change in Montreal Protocol and
Kyoto Protocol with respect to choice in blowing agents is restraining the market growth. The use of traditional
blowing agents such as HCFCs and HFCs is leading to ozone depletion and global warming, so its use is being
restricted. So the demand for Zero ODP and Low GWP blowing agents is emerging in the global market.
This report studies and forecasts the blowing agents market till 2019. The market has been segmented on the
basis of product types where major product types such as HCFCs (HCFC-141b, HCFC-142b, HCFC-22, &
others), HFCs (HFC-245fa, HFC-134a, HFC-365mfc/227ea, HFC-152a, & others), HCs (n-Pentane,
Cyclopentane, Isopentane, n-butane, Isobutane, & others), and Others (HFO's, Inert Gases, Methyl Formate,
Methylal, & others) have been discussed in detail and a comprehensive view and forecast is provided for each
category with the market volumes and revenues.
The market is also segmented on the basis of major foams type utilizing these blowing agents that includes
Polyurethane (Rigid & Flexible) foam, Polystyrene (EPS & XPS) foam, Phenolic foam, Polyolefin (PP & PE)
foam, and Others. The market is further segmented and forecasted for the major geographic regions such as:
North America, West Europe, Asia-Pacific, and ROW including key growth countries of that region. Major
countries with the volumes and revenues are covered for each of the region. Market estimations have been
provided in terms of consumption volume (kilotons) and market revenue ($Millions). The global as well as
regional markets have been segmented by blowing agents types such as HCFCs, HFCs, HCs and Others.
[Authors] used various secondary sources such as Company's Annual Reports, Organizational Websites and
Databases to identify and collect information useful for this extensive commercial study of blowing agents. The
primary sources-selected experts from related industries and selected suppliers have been interviewed to obtain
and verify critical information as well as to assess the future prospects of blowing agents.
[Authors] also profiled leading players of this industry with their recent developments and other strategic
industry activities. Key participants in the global blowing agents market include Honeywell International Ltd
(U.S.), Arkema SA (France), E.I. DuPont de Nemours & Co (U.S.), Solvay SA (Belgium), and others.
Scope of the report: This research report categorizes the global market for blowing agents on the basis of product
type, foam type, and geography; forecasting volumes and revenues and analyzing trends in each of the
submarkets.
On the basis of product type: HCFCs, HFCs, Hydrocarbons (HCs), and Others.
On the basis of foam type: PU, PS, Phenolic, Polyolefin, and Others.
On the basis of geography: North America, West Europe, Asia-Pacific, and ROW.
Fast Market Research, April 2019
AFRICA
5. UNIDO Air-conditioning Technology to Serve Africa, West Asia
Global use of air-conditioning is rocketing. Many of the world's fastest growing economies are
located in the hottest parts of the world, and the need to keep cool has become a priority for
people in many countries. In India, for example, sales of air-conditioning units are growing by
20 per cent each year.
With the United Nation Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) 2013 report by the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change stating that the number, frequency and intensity
of hot days and heatwaves are increasing, and with entities such as the World Bank warning of a global
temperature increase of four degrees Celsius by the end of the century, demand for air-conditioning is only
likely to increase.
In this context, a UNIDO demonstration project that has helped convert a production line for residential air
conditioners to ozone- and climate-friendly technology has clear relevance and importance.
The production line conversion took place at Midea, a manufacturing company that has one of the largest airconditioner production set-ups in China. Midea’s main products include residential air conditioners,
refrigerators, washing machines and compressors. The air conditioner production line converted by UNIDO has
a production output of 200,000 units per year.
Previously, Midea’s air-conditioners used HCFC-22, an ozone-depleting substance and greenhouse gas, as
refrigerant gas. The production line was converted from HCFC-22 to propane (R-290), a hydrocarbon which
does not deplete the ozone layer and has a very low global warming potential.
Moreover, the new optimized system at Midea has improved energy efficiency by 10-15 per cent, indirectly
contributing to the mitigation of climate change.
The project, funded by the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol, contributes
towards China’s commitment to freeze the consumption of HCFCs by 1st January 2013, in line with the
country’s obligations under the Montreal Protocol.
In addition, this project could have an important impact on the entire Chinese market since this alternative
technology to HCFC-22 with minimal climate impact has been proven viable and can now be adopted by other
refrigeration and air-conditioning manufacturers.
The project has also significant demonstration value for the safe manufacturing, installation and servicing of
products with flammable refrigerants.
Ultimately, the environmental impact of the project is the following: 240 tonnes of HCFC-22, or 13.2 tonnes of
ozone-depleting potential, were phased-out; and 967,490 tonnes of CO2-equivalent emissions will be reduced
each year.
This demonstration project is pioneering and of great importance, since R-290 was the main technology chosen
by China for the residential air-conditioning sector under its overall HCFC Phase-out Management Plan.
The conversion at Midea serves as example for many developing countries, opening a new door for further
developing South-South cooperation. This experience is proving useful for other UNIDO projects in West Asia
(Middle East and Near East), as well as in Africa.
In West Asian countries, the phase-out of HCFCs has become a challenge, as, at present, the most commonly
employed alternatives to HCFC in the air-conditioning sector in the region have high global warming potentials.
Therefore, UNIDO, in cooperation with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), has developed a
project for countries in the region which aims to shed light on potential sustainable technologies for countries
with high ambient temperatures.
This Day Live, 29 April 2014
6. Rwanda Environment Management Authority Takes Steps to Check Spread of
Dangerous Gases
The Government has taken more steps to prevent spread of dangerous substances that might cause depletion of
the ozone layer. Scientific evidence indicates that stratospheric ozone is being destroyed by manufactured
chemicals, containing chlorine and bromine.
The chemicals are called "ozone-depleting substances (ODS). The main ODS are chlorofluorocarbons,
hydrochlorofluorocarbons, carbon tetrachloride and methyl chloroform as well as halons. Dr Rose
Mukankomeje, the director-general of Rwanda Environment Management Authority (Rema), said new policies
have been designed to prevent the substances that might cause the depletion of ozone layer.
"Importation of equipment that contain ozone depleting substances has been banned in January,"
Dr Mukankomeje said. There are particular types of equipment such as air conditioners, refrigerators
and water dispensers which contain ozone-depleting substances. The importation of such was banned
effective January 1.
Importation of refrigerant gas to service those already on the market is also monitored, according to Rema.
Dr Mukankomeje said before a factory opens, it has to undergo environment impact assessment to avoid all the
negative impacts its operations might cause to the environment.
She said Rema would soon hire a firm to boost the control measures at key entry points such as airport, borders
and Magerwa warehouse at Gikondo. The Rema chief also said they are embarking on public awareness
targeting key stakeholders such as refrigeration technicians, importers and Rwanda Bureau of Standards to check
the import of equipment that generates ozone-depleting substances.
Didace Musoni, the head of data management at Rwanda Meteorology Agency, told The New Times that
although the most depleting substances are produced in industrialised countries, it was imperative for Rwanda
to be vigilant since depletion of ozone layer is a global challenge.
"It's a filter that God put to protect us. However, we are worried at the rate at which it's being depleted. This is
a concern for every country and it requires international efforts to prevent dire consequences," Musoni said.
According to research, chlorofluorocarbons- used as coolants in refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners as well
as cars manufactured before 1995 -accounts for more than 80 per cent of total stratospheric ozone depletion.
It is also found in industrial solvents, dry cleaning machines and in hospital sterilants. The ozone layer, which
lies in the atmosphere between 14km and 30km above earth surface, plays a vital role in blocking destructive
radiation waves which cause cancers in humans.
AllAfrica, 29 April 2014, By: Eric Kabeera
ASIA PACIFIC
7. NZ to Phase out Imports of Ozone-Depleting Substances
New Zealand is on track to phase out bulk imports of ozone-depleting hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) by
the end of this year, Environment Minister Amy Adams says. “HCFCs are the last controlled ozone-depleting
substance for New Zealand to phase out under the Montreal Protocol, and New Zealand is well ahead of the
2030 international deadline to phase out imports,” Ms Adams says.
“The 2012 Annual Report on the Operation of the Ozone Layer Protection Act tabled in Parliament today
confirms New Zealand is meeting its international obligations.”
Atmospheric concentrations of ozone-depleting substances have been declining since the late 1990s, which has
protected human health and the environment.
“The ozone layer is now on track to full recovery within this century, thanks to effective global action to reduce
the use of ozone-depleting substances in everyday products such as air conditioners, refrigerators, foams and
pesticides.”
The Montreal Protocol is the global agreement to phase out the production and use of substances that have been
depleting the ozone layer.
“New Zealand is proud of its role at the forefront of action to phase out ozone-depleting substances. We were
one of the countries pushing for a strong agreement on this issue, and we signed the Montreal Protocol on the
first day it opened for signature on 16 September 1987.”
The use of methyl bromide in New Zealand to fumigate soil for crops ended in 2007. Methyl bromide continues
to be used in New Zealand where it is essential to meet the requirements of export countries and to protect our
borders.
The Government is supporting research into alternatives to methyl bromide and ways to minimise its use.
A copy of the report will soon be available at: http://www.parliament.nz/
New Zealand Government Press Release, 16 April 2014
8. Confiscation of Hazardous Substances Ordered (Pakistan)
ISLAMABAD: The government has ordered confiscation of
illegally imported hazardous substances and has put seven
authorised importers under strict monitoring, a government
official said.
A senior official of the Climate Change Division told Dawn
that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) had been asked to
take action against illegal importers of
hydrochlorofluorocarbons and take further necessary steps to
confiscate illegal imports.
The official also confirmed that “seven authorised importers
had been placed under a moratorium and not given any quota for 2014” because of their inability to provide
documentary proof of their imports of 2013.
The HCFCs are organic and synthetic substances used mostly by manufacturers of refrigerators, freezers, airconditioners and fire extinguishing equipments etc and have been declared as ozone-depleting substances (ODS)
under the Montreal Protocol of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
The Montreal Protocol requires the parties, including Pakistan, to phase out production and consumption of such
substances and restrict trade in these substances by 2020. The Climate Change Division in a written position
paper also stated that it had already reduced Pakistan’s import quota for HCFCs for the current year by 10 per
cent as required under the Montreal Protocol.
It said Pakistan was required under the Montreal Protocol to freeze its imports of HCFCs based on average
imports during 2009 and 2010. As the country imported on average 246.7 ODP tonnes (ozone depletion potential
tons) of HCFCs, the baseline for the freeze to become applicable from Jan 1, 2013 was set at 246.7 ODP tonnes.
As required under the international obligation, the Climate Change Division had given quota to 23 parties for
import of HCFCs for 2013 after receipt of their applications through an open advertisement, the Climate Change
Division said.
The Ministry of Commerce and the FBR were not only responsible for implementation of the quota imports but
were also provided with details of the 23 selected importers. On completion of calendar year 2013, the Ozone
Cell of the Climate Change Division collected import data from Pakistan Automated Revenue Limited (PRAL)
of the FBR. At this state on examination of record, it came to light that 10 unauthorised companies had imported
HCFC illegally.
“Climate Change Division had never issued any kind of quota to them. The total volume of illegal imports by
unauthorised parties was 8.29 ODP tones,” the Climate Change Division wrote. It said the illegal traders
included Al-Imran Corporation, Ishtiaq Traders, Linde Pakistan Limited, MHS, S T Brothers, MC Master
Supply Group, Pindi Karwan Goods, Tahat Impex, Redco International and Salman Traders. The Climate
Change Division officially said that the responsibility of imports by illegal parties ‘totally lied with the FBR as
operational part of the quota is controlled by them.”
It said the PRAL data also suggested that 10 out of 23 authorised importers had exceeded quota limits but this
had to be further verified after examining the bills of lading of these companies. On examination of this data,
the names of three companies – Nile Trading, Katys and Dawlance – were cleared because they had imported
HCFCs on the basis of bill of lading of 2012 and were cleared in 2013 due to shipping time. As a result, the
government has recalculated all the quota for the year 2014 and only 15 companies whose names had been
cleared have now been issued quota for 2014.
“Seven importers who have not provided documentary proof of imports of 2013 have not been issued quota for
2014 and have been placed under a moratorium.”
These companies include ICI Pakistan, Delite Appliances, Master Refrigerant, S A Khan Traders, United
Refrigeration, Cool Industries and Atee and CO, the Climate Change Division stated.
The official said the quota for HCFCs imports for 2014 so far issued by the government stood at 131.7 ODP
tonnes which was below Pakistan’s authorised quota.
With effect from Jan 1, 2015, the baseline authorised to Pakistan will be reduced by 10pc.
“From this onward until 2020, Pakistan will be authorised to import 222.3 ODP tonnes,” the ministry said.
DawnCom, 2 April 2014, By: Khaleeq Kiani
9. Air-Con Maker Keen to Help Environment (Japan)
Osaka: Japan's Daikin Industries Ltd and other global airconditioner makers are becoming increasingly concerned about
global warming and using a more eco-friendly refrigerant, R32, in
their new products. Takayoshi: Sharing R32 with other firms R32
is a newer refrigerant that has three times less potential to cause
global warming than the current product.
The refrigerant was developed by Daikin and adopted in Japan two years ago. Miki Takayoshi, president of
Siam Daikin Sales Co, the Thai distributor of Daikin air conditioners, said energy savings and global warming
are increasingly important issues for air-conditioner makers.
Companies now realise the use of refrigerants can lead to carbon dioxide emissions and ozone depletion.
With the rise of environmental concerns, Daikin has stressed developing new refrigerant technology to reduce
the negative impact on the planet.
The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, part of the Vienna Convention for the
Protection of the Ozone Layer, states the release of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) from air conditioners seriously
depletes the ozone layer.
The current use of R22 and R410A refrigerants releases HCFC gas, a substitute for CFCs. All HCFC production
must be completely phased out in industrialised countries by 2020 and developing countries by 2030.
In Japan, Daikin has fully migrated to R32 use for its residential air conditioners. Other makers have just begun
to adopt the new refrigerant.
In Thailand, the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol has approved the use of R32
in the air-conditioning industry, with plans to phase out HCFCs by 2017.
To maintain a healthy environment, Daikin has allowed Japanese and other air-conditioner makers to use R32.
"It's difficult for air-conditioner makers to apply the new refrigerant in a short time," Mr Takayoshi said. "So
we have to educate people to be more concerned about the global warming problem."
Daikin will promote its new residential air-conditioner models with R32 at first, followed by commercial and
industrial units.
Tighter regulations on electric products are being enacted worldwide as part of efforts to combat global
warming. Innovative inverter air conditioners, which use less electricity, are a choice for consumers. In the
developed world, inverter air conditioners draw attention from consumers in Japan, Europe, Australia and the
US.
But in Thailand, inverter air conditioners represent just 10% of residential use, as they retail for 30% more than
regular models.
Economies of scale could reduce such prices in the future, depending on demand and market acceptance.
Mr Takayoshi said most Thai consumers base their decision to buy an air conditioner on pricing, noise and
design.
Buying an inverter air conditioner is a long-term investment, given its 15-year lifespan and lower energy bill.
"Innovation in air conditioners means not only helping to save the world but also reducing the biggest electrical
expense for households and commercial facilities," Mr Takayoshi said.
Bangkok Post, 10 April 2014
EUROPE AND CENTRAL ASIA
10. Impacts of Leakage from Refrigerants in Heat Pumps (UK)
The current UK heat pump market is relatively small in comparison to the dominance of
gas boilers. This situation is, however, not compatible with the Government’s carbon reduction
targets. The Heat Strategy has identified heat pumps as a key technology to drive the
decarbonisation of the heat sector in combination with the decarbonisation of the electricity
grid. Driven by the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), the deployment of heat pumps is
projected to grow significantly.
[…]
Refrigerants are a fundamental element of a heat pump installation as they are the working
fluid which carries the energy from the heat source to the heat emitters. The most common
fluids used in heat pumps are Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) which typically have a global
warming potential over 1000 times that of CO2. If the large scale deployment of heat pumps comes to fruition,
the energy performance and displacement of existing fossil fuel heating technologies will have a significant
impact on the ability of heat pumps to contribute to carbon reduction targets. As a result, the GHG emissions
associated with refrigerant use will be increasingly important as deployment of heat pumps grows. There is
currently relatively little quantitative analysis available on leakage rates of refrigerants over the lifetime of a heat
pump, yet the potential carbon benefits of heat pumps are likely to be very sensitive to leakage rates. The goal of
this study was therefore to provide a more evidence based assessment of likely leakage rates for different heat
pump installations over time. Driven primarily by the EU F-Gas Regulations, along with industry trends, it was
also important to try to estimate the likely trends in refrigerant use, particularly with regard to Global Warming
Potential (GWP).
At the same time, it is critical to present these impacts in the context of the benefits derived from heat pumps.
The study therefore aims to model deployment of heat pumps and leakage of refrigerant according to a range of
scenarios to present overall carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) net benefits or costs to both 2020 and 2050. […]
UK Department of Energy & Climate Change, March 2014
11. Response to “Refreshingly Cool, Potentially Toxic”
In the last issue of OzoNews on 15 April (article #5), we included an article entitled Refreshingly Cool, Potentially
Toxic” (Source: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 9 April 2014). Following dissemination we received
a communication from Honeywell Fluorine Products (a manufacturer of HFO-1234yf) stating that it was the
opinion of Honeywell that some parts of the article are misleading and they requested that we include the
following statement:
“Carbonyl fluoride (COF2) is in fact a well-known breakdown product of HFO-1234yf that has been publicly
studied by leading experts in the automotive industry. It was studied in the 2007-2009 Cooperative Research
Program (CRP) conducted by SAE International, the world’s leading automotive engineering organization. The
SAE CRP reviewed the COF2 data, included it in its risk assessment, and concluded that HFO-1234yf is safe
for use in automotive air conditioning. In March, the EU’s Joint Research Centre also reviewed this data and
again concluded that HFO-1234yf is safe for use in automobile air conditioning.
COF2 is also formed during the burning of the current automotive refrigerant HFC-134a, used in hundreds of
millions of vehicles worldwide today. When COF2 does form in such conditions, it only lasts for a fraction of
a second, which is not long enough to put bystanders, passengers, or first responders in any danger.”
Statement by Rajiv Banavali, Chief Technology Officer for Honeywell Fluorine Products.
LATIN AMERICA AND CARIBBEAN
12. BTVI Students Receive International Certification (Bahamas)
Nassau, Bahamas - Five students of The Bahamas Technical and
Vocational Institute (BTVI) now have international certification in
Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC).
Three of the students received universal certification while the other
two received core and levels 1 and 3 certifications.
The certification used for local technicians is based on section 608 of
the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Air Act,
which enforces activities that protect the ozone layer as they apply to
air conditioning systems and stationary refrigeration. Under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete
the Ozone Layer, all technicians must be certified.
The six-week course, which ended with a final exam, was taught by one of BTVI’s HVAC instructors, William
(Bill) Sturrup. He is also president of the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) which is responsible
for training industry technicians and regulators.
HVAC student Nyshieko Williams said he learned many skills during the course including wiring, the procedure
for connecting a compressor and he became familiar with the various tools used in the field. Questioned as to
the most important skill he gained, Mr. Williams said, “I learned how to recover refrigerants safely without
venting anything into the atmosphere.”
Meanwhile, Construction Technology student, Kenneth Forbes, who is also Operations Officer of the Royal
Bahamas Defence Force patrol vessel, HMBS Nassau, noted that as someone who works in administration, he
developed an appreciation for the technical side of the field.
“As an administrator, I deal with problem solving, but from the technical side, the course caused me to deal with
trouble shooting,” said the Defence Force Officer.
“It helps me with my present job. I can transfer the skills into technical leadership to augment my administrative
skills. HVAC is interesting and Mr. Sturrup is a great teacher. He makes you want to learn more. I never saw
myself as a technician. You always feel capable, but the course humbled me,” admitted Mr. Forbes.
For Wayne Farquharson, he encountered a few challenges including the amount of information given; however,
he summed it up as an “in-depth course” which gave him the foundation of the various pressure systems.
On the other hand, Peter Taylor who has been in the electrical field for 20 years has a new outlook on HVAC.
“HVAC is quite different from electrical and it’s hard to teach old dogs new tricks. However, I was learning
something totally new and I had the best instructor,” he said. Mr. Sturrup expressed how “exciting” it was
teaching the course and how pleased he was with results of the international certification. “I worked with a
bunch of intelligent men. I learned from them as much as they learned from me,” he stressed.
Furthermore, BTVI’s Dean of Construction Trades, Alexander Darville pointed out that the students’
international certification is in keeping with BTVI’s mission: ‘To provide learning opportunities that enable
individuals to be globally competitive and economically independent.’
“Such certifications are happening across the different disciplines and this is just the latest. They now know
what is demanded internationally and hopefully they’ll be ambassadors for new refrigerants,” he stated.
The Bahamas Weekly, 22 April 2014, By Hadassah Hall
NORTH AMERICA
13. US Sets Subsidy Rates on Chinese R134a
The US Department of Commerce has announced preliminary subsidy rates of up
to 28% on Chinese imports of R134a refrigerant. In its preliminary determination
in the countervailing duty investigation initiated by Mexichem, the Commerce
Department’s International Trade Administration said it preliminarily found that
imports of R134a from China have benefited from government subsidies that could
be offset by countervailing duties.
The Commerce Department calculated a preliminary subsidy rate of 28.74% for
TT International Co Ltd and 4.04% for JUHUA (including Zhejiang Quhua FluorChemistry Co Ltd and other Juhua stock companies). Additionally, a preliminary
subsidy rate of 1.35% was calculated for Jiangsu Bluestar Green Technology Co Ltd, a voluntary respondent.
All other producers/exporters in China have been assigned a preliminary subsidy rate of 16.39%.
The department said it will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection to require cash deposits based on the
preliminary rates. In petition’s filed by Mexichem in October 2013, the refrigerant manufacturer claimed that
China had increased production capacity of R134a by 80% in the last three years, driven by Chinese government
subsidies.
In 2013, imports of R134a from China were valued at an estimated $34.7m.
The Department of Commerce is scheduled to announce its final determination in this investigation on or about
August 5, unless the statutory deadline is extended.
If the final determination is affirmative and the US International Trade Commission also makes an affirmative
final determination that imports of R134a from China materially injure, or threaten material injury to, the USA
industry, Commerce will issue a CVD order. If either of the final determinations is negative, no CVD order will
be issued. The ITC is scheduled to make its final injury determination approximately 45 days after Commerce
issues its final determination, if affirmative.
CoolingPost, 21 April 2014
FEATURED
OZONE SECRETARIAT
Highlights: http://ozone.unmfs.org/new_site/en/index.php
The 34th Meeting of the Open-Ended Working Group of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol,
Paris, France, 14 - 18 July 2014. Pre-session documents and general information- Now available the Provisional
agenda - UNEP/OzL.Pro.WG.1/34/1 - (A C E F R S)
- OEWG-34: Scale of assessments for contributions by parties to the 2015-2017 replenishment of the Multilateral
Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol - Note by the secretariat (E only)
Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States
- Submission by the Ozone Secretariat
- Statement by the Secretariat at the first Meeting of the Preparatory Committee
9th Meeting of the Ozone Research Managers of the Vienna Convention, Agenda - UNEP/OzL/
Conv.ResMgr/9/1 - ( E )
Consultations on the 2015 - 2017 funding requirement for the replenishment of the Multilateral Fund:
(Français, Español)
Submission by Parties on stockpiles of pharmaceutical-grade CFCs potentially available for export
(Decision XXIV/3)
25MOP: Report of the meeting of the Bureau of the 24th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol
on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer – UNEP/OzL.Pro.24/Bur.1/3 – (A | C | E | F | R | S)
Montreal Protocol Meetings Dates and Venues 2014
TEAP - Evaluation of 2013 Critical Use Nominations for Methyl Bromide and Related Matters Final Report
Assessment Panels Meetings - Dates and Venues 2014
THE MULTILATERAL FUND FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE MONTREAL
PROTOCOL
The 72nd Meeting of the Executive Committee is scheduled to take place in Montreal, Canada from
12 to 16 May 2014.
OZONACTION
Phasing-out Methyl Bromide in Developing Countries: A success story and its
challenges
This booklet addresses the efforts undertaken to phase-out Methyl Bromide in developing
countries, the lessons learned and what is pending to reach final phase-out. It further analyses
factors that may impact or put at risk the continuity of the phase-out and possible ways to mitigate
them. It aims to promote the south-south and north-south-south cooperation, facilitate information
exchange on advanced technologies for materials, varieties, rootstocks, etc. and raise awareness
on risk of reversibility of MB uses and encourage policy to avoid it happening.
Third Edition of the Training Manual for Customs and Enforcement Officers is updated to
reflect the evolving role of Customs and enforcement officers in implementing their
commitments under the Montreal Protocol. It includes additional information on all the
substances now controlled under the Montreal Protocol, with a focus on
hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) which are primarily used as refrigerants and foam blowing
agents. HCFCs replaced chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) which were phased out by 1st January 2010.
As most ozone depleting substances are also potent greenhouse gases, the section dealing with
linkages between ozone layer depletion and global warming has been extended to include new scientific
findings…
See also the updated Poster “Customs Quick Tool for Screening ODS”
OzonAction Branch Publications and Video launched During MOP 25
OzonAction Special Issue 2013 (OASI): “A Healthy Atmosphere: the Future we Want”.
A special issue dedicated to stratospheric ozone and climate change related issues and the implementation of
the Montreal Protocol, providing the most recent information on ozone protection activities from industry,
governments, NGOs and international organizations. OASI is devoted to current topics of particular interest to
Article 5 countries.
Achievements & Highlights: 10th Anniversary of the Regional Ozone Network for Europe &
Central Asia The 10th anniversary brochure of the ECA network reflects a decade of network operation and
aims to share major achievements, case studies and highlights to provide inspiration for countries within and
outside the region. Government officials, refrigeration and enforcement experts, building planners and
academia, Montreal Protocol secretariats, implementing agencies and bilateral partners, private sector
companies and trade associations as well international organizations contributed more than 85 exciting articles
and quotes to this bilingual English -Russian brochure.
National Ozone Officers Guide. This guide introduces and summarizes the many important issues about
the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer that Ozone Officers (NOOs) need to know
to perform their job effectively. Presented in an easy to understand format, the guide is designed to provide new
NOOs and their assistants with the critical knowledge needed to quickly understand the Montreal protocol
system and the country’s obligations under the Montreal Protocol.
Putting a face to ozone depletion in Africa: HPMP Implementation in Africa, a special case
study of Senegal. This guide introduces the implementation of Montreal Protocol in Africa. It describes the
HCFC phase-out management plans (HPMPs) in selected African countries, especially in Senegal. It focuses
on ozone, climate and energy efficiency aspects.
OzonAction Publications Catalogue 2014. Information on science, policies, and technologies forms the
base of technology support and capacity building. Since 1991, the information clearinghouse of UNEP DTIE
OzonAction has been helping developing countries to make informed decisions about phase-out by providing
quality reviewed, need-based information services. Never before has such a power tool been so badly needed
as now, when the Montreal Protocol is entering the second phase and when the climate benefits of its
implementation are becoming so clear and evident. Showcased in this catalogue - sector-wise, as well as
function-wise - are more than 145 publications, CD ROMS, videos, posters, TV spots, radio spots, DVD and other
awareness materials to help National Ozone Units (NOUs) and other stakeholders in industry and governments to build
their capacity to implement the Montreal Protocol and at the same time derive climate.
“The Arctic and the Ozone Layer”- background: In 2011,
extremely low ozone levels were recorded in the Arctic region. This
episode in the North Pole - the Arctic - has triggered concerns on the trend
of the ozone layer's recovery, expected to fully happen by mid-century.
With the support of the Government of Norway, UNEP is investigating
the causes of this depletion and the scientific explanations for such an
unexpected episode in the Arctic. This 16-minute documentary reports the
impacts on the region's ecosystem and the changes’ foreseen risks in the
Arctic that may affect human life also in mid-latitudes. This video output
is jointly branded by the WMO (World Meteorological organisation) and brings to light some of the so much discussed
inter-linkages between the climate and ozone issues on the voices of internationally known scientists.
Click here to
view video
EVENTS
2014
Krakow Pest Management Around the world – 11th Fumigants and Pheromones Conference,
2-4 June 2014, Krakow, Poland
3rd Annual ATMOsphere America 2014, 18-19 June 2014, The Westin Market Street, San
Francisco, The United States
Find all ATMOsphere Summary Reports here
3rd IIR International Conference on Sustainability and the Cold Chain,
23-25 June 2014, St Mary's University College, Twickenham, London, UK
ASHRAE 2014 Annual Conference, 28 June-2 July, Seattle, Washington, US
The Future of HVAC 2014 Conference,
Abstract / submissions for this conference are open
July
2014,
Sydney,
Australia.
5th International Biofumigation Symposium, 9-12 September 2014, Harper Adams University,
UK
Call for abstracts: AIRAH is calling for abstracts for the Acoustics Workshop 2014, which will be
held in Sydney, Australia, on Thursday, 18 September 2014.
4emes journées chaine du froid des produits de santé, organisées par AFF et SFSTP, à ENS Lyon,
France, 26 - 27 novembre 2014
2015
ASHRAE Announces Call for Papers for 2015 Winter Conference, 24-28 January, Chicago,
ATLANTA –
FRIGAIR Africa 2015 is a go! 3-5 June 2015, Gallaghar Estate, Midrand. South Africa.
FRIGAIR 2015 Showcasing the crucial role played by the HEVAC&R industry and the rapidly
developing technology in eco-friendly efficiency.
READING
Read / Download this publication for free
Greenleaf
Publishing
is
pleased
to
make
its
book
“Ozone Connections: Expert Networks
in Global
Environmental Governance” authored by Penelope Canan and
Nancy Reichman, freely available to the UNEP and its National Ozone
Units worldwide for one year, beginning on 16 September 2013. Read
more
WMO Antarctic Ozone 2013 Bulletins - The World Meteorological
Organization Secretariat issues bulletins containing information on the
state of the ozone layer in the Antarctic at roughly two week intervals
from August to November. The bulletins are based on data provided by
WMO Members which operate ozone monitoring stations in the southern
hemisphere and satellites to observe ozone globally. WMO Antarctic
Ozone Bulletins: 2013
Low-GWP Alternatives in Commercial Refrigeration: Propane,
CO2 and HFO Case Studies The CCAC has launched a transformative
initiative (entitled ‘The HFC Initiative, Promoting HFC Alternative
Technology and Standards’) for rapid implementation aimed at
promoting HFC alternative technologies and standards to significantly
reduce the projected growth in the use and emissions of high-global
warming potential (GWP) HFCs in coming decades relative to businessas-usual scenarios. The objectives of the initiative are to mobilise efforts
of the private sector, civil society, international organisations, and
governments…
Drawing down N2O to protect climate and the ozone layer A UNEP
synthesis report - This report addresses the benefits of drawing down
nitrous oxide (N2o) emissions. N2o is now the most significant ozonedepleting substance emission and the third most important greenhouse
gas released into the atmosphere. Global anthropogenic N2oemissions
are rapidly increasing and are expected to almost double by 2050 unless
mitigation action is accelerated. The continued build-up of N2o, in the
atmosphere will continue to deplete the stratospheric ozone layer and in
so doing will to a degree undermine the achievements of the Montreal
Protocol. The build-up of N2owill also make it more difficult to achieve
climate targets.
2014 MOPIA Compliance Guide - MOPIA’s 2014 Edition of our
Manitoba Regulatory Compliance Guide can be seen/accessed below. It is
a valuable reference tool for industry and stakeholders who encounter the
various regulated (ODS and Halocarbon) products. Click here to
read/download and share….
Effective Climate Agreements: Past, Present and Future After seven
years of work, the world’s leading climate scientists who make up the
International Panel on Climate Change issued their gravest assessment
yet last month. The panel found that climate change is already having
vast impacts throughout the world, which are accelerating, and will lead
to even worse droughts, floods, sea level rise, extreme weather and
potential famine and destabilization of people’s and countries if current
trends continue… The Hill Congress-Blog, 15 April 2014, By Durwood
Zaelke and Paul Bledsoe
The report, “Blowing Agents Market by Type (HCFCs, HFCs, HCs
& Others), by Foam Type (PU, PS, Phenolic, Polyolefin, & Others)
& Geography - Trends and Forecasts to 2019” defines and segments
the global blowing agents market with analysis and forecasting of the
global consumption volume and value.
Research and Markets: Walk-in Refrigeration Market in the US 20142018: Estimations Reveal that Restaurant Industry Sales are to
Reach US$683.4 Billion in 2014
See also >> Refrigerant Market (HCFC, HFC, HC) Worth $15.7
Billion By 2018
GUIDE+: HFC taxes & fiscal incentives for natural refrigerants
in Europe, a comprehensive overview of existing and proposed fiscal
measures aimed at reducing the HFCs use and emissions in HVAC&R
sectors, while encouraging the switch to climate-friendly technologies,
in key Europe countries.
UNIDO & shecco launch first GUIDE on Natural Substances in
Developing Countries - The report, summarizing results from the
ATMOsphere Technology Summit and global surveys gathering
perspectives from emerging economies, is another clear step to
strengthen shecco’s involvement in international project activities
helping developing countries seize additional climate benefits from
natural refrigerants and foams.
Primer on Hydrofluorocarbons, Fast action under the Montreal
Protocol can limit growth of HFCs, prevent up to 100 billion tonnes of
CO2-eq emissions by 2050, and avoid up to 0.5°C of warming by 2100.
IGSD, January 2014, Lead authors: Durwood Zaelke, Nathan BorgfordParnell, and Danielle Fest Grabiel. Contributing authors: Stephen O.
Andersen, Xiaopu Sun, Dennis Clare, Yuzhe Peng Ling, and Alex
Milgroom.
A technical handbook by GIZ Proklima on Nationally Appropriate
Mitigation Action (NAMAs) in the refrigeration, air conditioning
and foam sectors (RAC&F) is a comprehensive guideline for the
preparation and implementation of cost-effective mitigation actions on
that particular sector. The handbook was produced as part of a global
project on NAMAs on RAC&F, financed by the International Climate
Initiative of the German Environment Ministry.
Global Fluorochemicals Industry, This report analyzes the worldwide
markets for Fluorochemicals in Thousand Metric...
ReportLinker
An Alternatives Assessment for the Flame Retardant Decabromodiphenyl Ether (DecaBDE) provides detailed hazard information for
29 substances and mixtures that have been identified as potentially viable
alternatives to decabromodiphenyl ether (decaBDE) in a variety of
polymers and applications…
2013 Milestones; 2014 Opportunities in Enforcement & Compliance,
The International Network for Environmental Compliance and
Enforcement (INECE)
UNODC study: Border Control in the Greater Mekong Sub-region
See: Trafficking of Hazardous Waste and ODS: pages: 4, 18 and 19.
“Green Cooling for a Warming Wold”. A new video by
Proklima - explains how cooling technologies are linked to our
climate and what it needs to ensure that they are truly
environmentally friendly. Together with the Film Academy
Ludwigsburg, GIZ Proklima has created a video for the Green
Cooling Initiative (GCI). The video shall enhance awareness on the
harmful effects of f-gases on the ozone layer and the climate.
Exemplarily, our “green cooling-family” discovers various
practises of cooling in their life and learns about the use of natural
refrigerants as an environmentally-friendly alternative to chemical
refrigerants.
Magnets Bring Refrigerators to the Brink of RevolutionThe developers of a new magnet-based cooling system claim their
invention has brought the refrigeration industry to the “cusp of
revolution.”
MISCELLANEOUS
"Update on European Fluorinated Gases (F-Gases) Regulation", GreenChill USEPA Webinar, Tuesday,
May 6, 2014, at: 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm (Eastern time).
To join the webinar:
1. Go to https://epa.connectsolutions.com/f-gas_rule/
2. Select "Enter as a Guest". It is important that you select the option to enter as a guest
3. Enter your name
4. Click "Enter Room"
5. Click "OK"
--------For audio
1. Call the toll free call-in number: 1-866-299-3188 (706-758-1822 from outside the U.S.)
2. Use Conference Code: 202 343 9185#
Ammonia Q&A: Rajan Rajendran provide his opinion on ammonia’s future in commercial refrigeration
beyond industrial uses.
White House launches climate data website, more initiatives to come, 19 March 2014
E-learning module for law enforcement officers on hazardous chemicals and wastes under the Basel, Rotterdam
and Stockholm Conventions, available in Arabic, English, French and Spanish.
AIRAH’s Graduate Training Program on Track for 2015 Launch- The training program will cover essential
HVAC&R knowledge for engineering graduates – professionals who are employed in consulting or contracting
firms, but who have had little or no exposure to the HVAC&R industry before employment.
The pilot subject was “Introduction to HVAC&R – System Types and Applicability”, from the Fundamentals
subject group.
The program will run for nine months, separated into two semesters. The content will be delivered online, with
100 hours’ worth of topics divided into four key areas: Fundamentals; Equipment and Components; Systems;
and Practice and Performance…
The Montreal Protocol Who's Who
Learn more and nominate Ozone Layer Protection
Champion from your Country /Region >>
http://www.unep.fr/ozonaction/montrealprotocolwhoswho
Disclaimer: The United Nations Environment Programme
Division of Technology, Industry and Economics (UNEP
DTIE) OzonAction Programme provides OzoNews as a free
service for internal, non-commercial use by members of the
Montreal Protocol community. Since its inception in January
2000, the goal of OzoNews is to provide current news relating
to ozone depletion and the implementation of the Montreal
Protocol, to stimulate discussion and promote cooperation in
support of compliance with the Montreal Protocol. With the
exception of items written by UNEP and occasional
contributions solicited from other organizations, the news is
sourced from on-line newspapers, journals and websites. The
views expressed in articles written by external authors are
solely the viewpoints of those authors and do not represent the
policy or viewpoint of UNEP. While UNEP strives to avoid
inclusion of misleading or inaccurate information, it is
ultimately the responsibility of the reader to evaluate the
accuracy of any news article in OzoNews. The citing of
commercial technologies, products or services does not
constitute endorsement of those items by UNEP.
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please contact directly the source indicated at the bottom of
each article.
Prepared by: Samira Korban-de Gobert, OzonAction
Reviewed by: Shamila Nair-Bedouelle, Head OzonAction
Branch, and Ezra Clark, OzonAction
If you wish to submit articles, invite new subscribers,
please contact:
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