Group calls for phase out of PFAS in HVACR
26th February 2025
BELGIUM: A new group promoting the adoption of “natural” refrigerants has petitioned the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) to restrict the use of PFAS within the European HVACR sector.
The ECHA committees are about to embark on evaluating the impact of fluorinated gases under proposed new European PFAS restrictions. A new chemical definition of PFAS could lead to a ban on practically all HFC and HFO refrigerants, as well as the fluoropolymers used in a number of critical refrigeration components, like seals and gaskets.
The Coalition for PFAS Free Cooling & Heating, formed at the end of October last year by “natural” refrigerant group ATMOsphere and nine HVACR companies, is petitioning the ECHA to “swiftly enact strict and comprehensive restrictions” on PFAS substances within the HVACR sector.
“Phasing out these harmful “forever chemicals” is not only vital for protecting public health and the environment but also presents a significant economic opportunity for the EU,” the group says.
The coalition lists a number of advantages in taking firm action including increased job creation, market growth and reduced healthcare costs.
The group includes Finnish heat exchanger manufacturer Vahterus, German chiller manufacturer Secon, compressor company Dorin, commercial vehicle AC company Konvekta, Lithuanian refrigeration equipment producer Refra, refrigeration equipment manufacturer Güntner, Danish industrial heat pump manufacturer Fenagy and the industrial refrigeration systems companies Zudek of Italy and German company Teko.
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PFAS impact discussions March on – 18 February 2025
FINLAND: The dates and agendas for the evaluations of the impact of fluorinated gases under proposed new European PFAS restrictions have now been published by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). Read more…
