The Environmental Protection Agency has announced its final rules for a substantial reduction in the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons in the next decade and a half.
Those hydrofluorocarbons, otherwise known as HFCs, are most commonly used in air conditioning and refrigeration equipment.
The new rules, as mandated by the passage of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act last year, will see a 30% HFC reduction within the next three years, followed by another 30% drop to take effect by 2029.
The 85% goal is expected to be reached in 2036.
In a statement, EPA Administrator Michael Regan said the new HFC rule, among other things, “demonstrates that America is back when it comes to leading the world in addressing climate change and curbing global warming in the years ahead.”
Announcement of the new rule has won the praise of a number of industry groups, including the National Association of Manufacturers and the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute.
Supporters have in particular applauded the phase-out aspect of the rule.
“The plan allows U.S. manufacturers to maintain a technological advantage over foreign competitors in the global marketplace in supporting an appropriate transition,” said the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in a statement, “while creating thousands of new and good paying jobs in the U.S.”
By Garry Boulard