OLYMPIA – Hydrofluorocarbon (HFC), the gas used to run refrigerators, air conditioners, and heat pumps is usually colorless and odorless, but can be deadly for the planet when released. That’s why Rep. Davina Duerr (D-Bothell) wants to make sure the gas from those appliances gets captured and reused.
“In the 1980s we thought HFCs were a safe replacement,” said Rep. Duerr, sponsor of HB 1462. “But now we know that isn’t true. These super greenhouse gases destroy the earth’s ozone layer and harm our planet.”
Compared to carbon dioxide, HFCs have approximately 1,000 to 3,000 times the global warming potential (GWP) and can last between 15 and 29 years in the atmosphere once released.
The bill requires the Ecology Department to phase in lower GWP limits for virgin bulk hydrofluorocarbons entering the state through commerce with the first phase limit going into effect in 2030 followed by a 50% limit reduction in 2033.
“Ignoring the global impacts of HFCs would have dramatic consequences for our planet,” said Rep. Duerr. “The technology already exists to capture and reuse HFC from commercial products like refrigerators and heat pumps once they have outlived their useful life. Phasing in limits smooths the market transition for refrigerant users, encourages innovation in new sectors and aligns us with federal efforts to do the same.”
Under the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act passed in 2020, the U.S. Environmental Protection agency has called for reducing the production and consumption of HFCs by 85% by 2036.
“As the planet warms and heat waves become more intense and longer lasting, refrigerants will become more widely used,” Rep. Duerr said. “Phasing HFCs out now will save us time and money in the future.”
The bill passed the House on Wednesday, March 5 with a vote of 59 to 38 and now heads to the Senate for consideration.