Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
Ozone-Depleting Refrigerant Management
Section 608 of the Clean Air Act requires EPA to establish a program to limit emissions of ozone-depleting refrigerants. Section 608 also prohibits the knowing release or disposal of ozone-depleting refrigerants when maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment.
First Trump Administration (2017–2020)
On March 11, 2020, EPA finalized a rule to amend the 2016 rule by, among other things, rescinding provisions that extend leak repair requirements to appliances using substitute refrigerants. 85 Fed. Reg. 14,150 (Mar. 11, 2020). (See Natural Resources Defense Council v. Wheeler in “Litigation” below.)
- Final Rule, 85 Fed. Reg. 14,150 (Mar. 11, 2020)
- Proposed Rule, 83 Fed. Reg. 49,332 (Oct. 1, 2018)
Obama Administration (2009–2016)
On November 18, 2016, EPA extended safe handling requirements under section 608 of the Clean Air Act that currently apply to ozone depleting refrigerants, extending them to substitutes like hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). 81 Fed. Reg. 82,272 (Nov. 18, 2016). According to EPA estimates, annual GHG emissions reductions from this rule will be approximately 7.3 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent and 114 ozone-depletion weighted metric tons.
- Final Rule, 81 Fed. Reg. 82,272 (Nov. 18, 2016)
- Proposed Rule, 80 Fed. Reg. 69,458 (Nov. 9, 2015)
- Fact Sheet
Litigation
Challenge to 2020 Rule - Natural Resources Defense Council v. Wheeler
On May 11, 2020, NRDC filed a petition for review of the 2020 rule in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. In October 2024, the parties filed a joint stipulation to dismiss the case.