The recent EU Regulation 2024/573 has introduced significant changes in the regulation of fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-Gases), with the aim of addressing more rigorously the reduction of their presence in the market and promoting environmental sustainability. We explore the implications of these new measures and their impact on the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) industry.
EU Regulation 2024/573, published on February 20, 2024, replaces the previous F-Gas 517/2014 and establishes tighter restrictions on the production, import and marketing of F-gases in the EU. It highlights the progressive reduction of their presence in the market and the imposition of specific quantitative limits for hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), with the aim of meeting the commitments of the Paris Agreement and promoting a more sustainable economy.
The new regulation expands the provisions for the use, containment, recovery, recycling, reclamation and destruction of fluorinated gases, as well as for the control and supervision necessary for compliance. It focuses on emissions prevention, leakage control and the promotion of more sustainable management practices in the HVAC sector.
Regarding the impact on the existing fleet of air conditioners and heat pumps, the regulation establishes restrictions on the use of “virgin” refrigerants and promotes the use of recovered and recycled refrigerants. This guarantees the operational continuity of the installed equipment and reduces the environmental impact of its maintenance.
In addition to restrictions on the production and marketing of F-gases, EU Regulation 2024/573 also establishes stricter requirements for the certification and training of technicians in the handling of these gases. It details the minimum training requirements in regulatory knowledge, emission prevention and recovery of fluorinated gases, thus ensuring safe and responsible practices in the sector.
Its entry into force on March 11 represents an important step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and meeting the objectives of the European Green Pact. For ECOTIC, these new measures offer an opportunity to promote more sustainable practices in the HVAC sector and contribute to environmental protection.
