Three tonnes of illegal HFCs seized in NZ

NEW ZEALAND: Authorities in New Zealand have reported the seizure of three tonnes of HFCs in an ongoing crackdown on illegal imports.

The joint operation between the country’s Environmental Protection Authority, Police and Customs Service saw several search warrants being executed across New Zealand. 

In New Zealand, HFCs are controlled under the Ozone Layer Protection Act and the Climate Change Response Act. Offences can carry a fine, and in some cases, up to five years’ imprisonment.

“The EPA is cracking down on operators who import and sell cheap bottles of HFCs without applying for a permit or paying a levy to cover the greenhouse gas emissions of the HFCs,” said Gayle Holmes, the EPA’s compliance, monitoring and enforcement general manager.

“Illegal importers are undercutting legitimate operators and, in some cases, selling contaminated HFCs that could damage vehicles and equipment.”

Anyone importing bulk HFCs into New Zealand needs a permit under the country’s Ozone Layer Protection Act and must be registered as a participant in its emissions trading scheme.