where is the industry headed?

With the phase-down of HFCs and the push for reduced amounts of high-GWP refrigerants, end-users are in a situation where they must decide which regulations they will choose to be governed by, rather than if they can remove their facility from an under a regulatory agency by restricting their inventory or using alternative refrigerants. R448, R449, R513, R1234YF, R454C, and R32 (R22 replacement) are all HFO blends and are becoming more popular across industries. Some large questions remain. What is the health and safety data of these new HFOs on the market? Do we have enough data to make sound decisions about the toxicity or health implications of these new refrigerants? Can HFOs, like other synthetic materials, be point sources or considered forever chemicals?

Manufacturing of refrigerants and equipment, food supply and management, pharmaceuticals, logistics, technological advances, etc. will likely all see a significant impact in the next few years. The resiliency and stability of IIARs membership, community, and involvement in the industry will continue to be necessary to help hold it all together.

IIAR’s global reach will also continue to be of utmost importance with so many unknowns in the near future.