Institutions and Governments Can Slow Climate Change by Regulating and Reducing Halocarbon Refrigerant Use

Abstract

Halocarbon refrigerant emissions are the fastest-growing source of greenhouse gas emissions around the globe. The continued use of these refrigerants poses serious environmental threats. In the absence of strong federal regulation on halocarbon use, state and local governments and institutions can commit to reducing halocarbon refrigerant emissions. Here, we outline policies that governments and users of these refrigerants can adopt to minimize their emissions. These policies include cataloging and maintaining their climate control equipment and committing to alternative refrigerants with lesser environmental impacts.