The federal government has opened public consultation on options to reduce the use of high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants in the commercial and industrial refrigeration sector.

As noted in the consultation paper, the government is looking at further measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act (1989).

Views are sought on how the use of high-GWP HFC refrigerants in the commercial and industrial refrigeration sector can be reduced.

Options being considered include restrictions on import and manufacture of new commercial refrigeration equipment using high-GWP refrigerants, and restrictions on the import and use of R404A.

Survey responses and submissions will inform development of draft proposals that will be further consulted on before being presented to the government for consideration.

The consultation paper, Commercial and industrial refrigeration: Reducing the climate impact of refrigerants, is available at the DCCEEW website. The consultation is open until Thursday, August 8, 2024.