Since 1994, the most common refrigerant used in many industrial sectors, from automotive to aerosol products, is hydrofluorocarbon HFC-134a. Like the ozone-depleting substances they replaced, it is now recognized that ozone-friendly hydrofluorocarbons like HFC-134a have high global warming potential (GWP).

With phasing out ozone-depleting Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), we are seeing the replenishment the earth’s protective layer. The international community has learned that by reducing greenhouse gases, it is possible to reduce the affect emissions have on global warming. While chlorine and fluorine are no longer used in the manufacture of aerosol sprays or refrigerants, many of the HFC replacements are now understood to be greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.