In passing HB 1050 last session, the Legislature directed the Department of Ecology (Ecology) to develop a program to address end-of-life hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants. Ecology is seeking input on what to consider in creating the program.

HFCs are potent greenhouse gases – they are thousands of times more powerful than carbon dioxide. Reducing HFC emissions is an important focus for the state to reach the greenhouse gas emission limits set in state law. The program will be part of a larger effort to address issues involving HFC gases, which are used in HVAC systems, appliances, and as propellants.

The program needs to address both industrial and commercial refrigeration as well as consumer appliances, equipment, and products (including disposable products such as auto air conditioning recharge products and tire inflators) that contain HFCs or other refrigerants that contribute to climate change or damage the ozone layer.

Ecology is specifically seeking ideas, input, feedback, and suggestions about program aspects such as:

• How to encourage proper recycling and disposal of equipment that contains HFCs and other refrigerants.
• Ideas for financial and other incentives to encourage homeowners and businesses to safely dispose of unwanted refrigerants and refrigerated equipment.
• Ideas for incentives to encourage businesses to reuse or recycle refrigerants in their equipment.
• Challenges that businesses and equipment manufacturers may face in transitioning to safer refrigerants in existing equipment.
• Examples from other states or jurisdictions with incentives encouraging reuse or recycling of refrigerants, as well as users’ experience with those programs.
• Costs associated with proper recycling and disposal of refrigeration equipment and other items containing HFCs and other refrigerants.
• Who should be responsible for costs associated with recycling or reclamation of refrigerants.
  • For example, what are some possible funding sources for incentive programs?
  • Should refrigerant manufacturers, equipment manufacturers, or others should be required to participate in an extended producer responsibility or product stewardship program (like Washington’s E-Cycle program)?

Ecology is available to schedule one-on-one discussions by phone or web calls. Ecology is also encouraging submission of written comments and feedback at its eComments website at End-of-life HFC management comment form.

Comments and other feedback are being accepted until July 21.