As part of targeted industry consultation, AIRAH with the support of the Refrigeration STG has been providing input to the Department of Climate Change, Energy and the Environment (DCCEEW) and the Climate Change Authority on the HFC phase-down and refrigerant transition as part of Australia’s net zero commitments.

AIRAH is advocating for restrictions on specific equipment classes and refrigerants to address slow-to-change applications, such as R404A in commercial refrigeration. This should be supported by awareness raising among both contractors and end-users.

We are also calling for better maintenance regimes for HVAC&R equipment, which would have the double benefit of significantly reducing direct emissions, as well as indirect emissions from equipment that is not operating at peak efficiency

AIRAH believes product stewardship is an area where there is opportunity for improvement, and we are advocating for a rethink of the exemption applied to pre-charged equipment as part of Australia’s HFC quota.

AIRAH continues to support Australia’s refrigerant transition by providing expert input to government consultations, and by sharing information and educational resources with the industry.