Since 1 September 2023, the PROZON Climate Protection Foundation has been implementing the LEGAL HFC 4 LIFE project, which is financed from EU funds. Its primary objective is to develop and implement a model of cooperation and tools between public authorities and other entities in order to improve monitoring in the area of HFCs and their illegal trading. Smuggling and the trade in refrigerants obtained through such means prevents the full realisation of the HFC phase-down plan and emission reduction targets set out in Regulation 517/2014 and its revision.
A highly important milestone in the implementation of the project was the LEGAL HFC 4 LIFE Open Day. The PROZON Climate Protection Foundation invited the project’s key stakeholders to the event, including representatives of public administration (Regional Environmental Inspectorates, the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Climate and Environment), representatives of the Chief Police Headquarters, Regional Police Headquarters and the Central Investigation Bureau. Invitations were also extended to representatives of the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning industry, businesses, PROZON’s partners and journalists covering environmental topics. In response to the email invitations sent out, a total of 217 people registered for the event.
The LEGAL HFC 4 LIFE Project Open Day yielded a number of important conclusions: refrigerant smuggling poses a significant threat to the environment and public health, and its scale is alarming. The implementation of rigorous regulations and controls is essential to curb refrigerant smuggling and promote legal practices in the refrigeration industry. The LEGAL HFC 4 LIFE Project Open Day was an important event that drew attention to the issue of refrigerant smuggling and the associated legal questions. Participants had the opportunity to gain new knowledge, exchange experience and make contacts with experts in the fields of refrigeration and environmental law. The project will contribute to raising awareness of the need for measures aimed at environmental protection and the promotion of legal practices in the field of refrigerants.
The organisers express their gratitude to all speakers, participants and partners who contributed to the success of the LEGAL HFC 4 LIFE Project Open Day. This project represents an important step towards environmental protection and the promotion of sustainable practices in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.
Leave a Reply