Centres gets strict, EC mandatory for HFC production now

In a significant move to address climate change and comply with international obligations, the Government of India has mandated that the production of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) will now require environmental clearance (EC) under the EIA Notification, 2006.

- JITENDRA CHOUBEY @New Delhi

HFC is a potent synthetic greenhouse gas used primarily in refrigeration and air conditioning that heavily accelerates climate change. It has more global warming potential than CO2. This decision aligns with the commitments established under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, adopted in October 2016 in Rwanda. India is required to undertake phasedown of production and consumption of HFCs as under the protocol. HFCs, commonly used in refrigeration and air conditioning sectors, are now classified as controlled substances. The amendment stipulates that India must undertake a phasedown of HFC production and consumption.