Abstract:

As substitutes of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) which are controlled under the Montreal Protocol, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) have become a focus globally in recent years for their high global warming potential (GWP). Nowadays, some developed countries have established policies and regulations to control the production, consumption and emission of HFCs. The F-Gas Regulation of the European Union takes total-amount-control of HFCs by quota management, while Significant New Alternatives Policy Program in the U.S. phases out HFCs by altering acceptable substitutes. By analyzing and comparing the differences and similarities of policies and regulations in developed countries, it’s essential for China to legalize HFCs control and to phase down HFCs through full-lifecycle management under the total-amount-control principle.

Key words: hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), developed countries, emissions control, policies and regulations