The Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases (FGHG) Regulation (EU) 2024/573 is a European Union law aimed at phasing out the use of these potent greenhouse gases. It establishes strict rules on their containment, use, recovery, recycling, and destruction, ultimately targeting a complete phase-out by 2050. The regulation focuses on reducing hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) through a quota system.
Regulation (EU) 2024/573 on fluorinated greenhouse gases came into force on March 11, 2024. It applies to the fluorinated greenhouse gases listed in Annexes I, II, and III, as well as products and equipment containing these gases. While these gases are widely used in various industries, they are potent contributors to global warming. This regulation is part of the EU’s broader efforts to meet its climate targets and transition toward a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.
The FGHG Regulation (EU) 2024/573 establishes rules on the containment, use, recovery, recycling, reclamation, and destruction of fluorinated greenhouse gases. It imposes conditions on their production, import, export, placement on the market, subsequent supply, and use. Additionally, it sets quantitative limits for placing hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) on the market and outlines reporting requirements.
Key compliance requirements include:
- Producers and importers must keep the declaration of conformity and supporting documentation for at least five years from the date of placement on the market. These documents must be submitted upon request to the competent authority of the Member State or the European Commission.
- Operators and manufacturers of equipment must ensure regular leak checks if the equipment contains a significant quantity of fluorinated greenhouse gases.
Compliance XL provides FGHG compliance consulting services and assists companies in adhering to EU’s new regulatory requirements. We also help our clients maintain up-to-date supplier certificates and declarations as part of their compliance data management strategy.
FAQs:
1. What are fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases)?
F-gases are a group of greenhouse gases that include hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆), and nitrogen trifluoride (NF₃). These gases are widely used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and other applications, but they have a much higher global warming potential than carbon dioxide (CO₂).
2. How will the new FGHG regulation affect industries that use F-gases?
Industries will need to comply with new restrictions on the use and sale of F-gases. This may require adopting alternative technologies or modifying existing systems to reduce reliance on fluorinated greenhouse gases.
3. How will the EU enforce compliance with the regulation?
The EU will enforce compliance through monitoring, reporting requirements, and penalties for non-compliance, ensuring that industries adhere to the regulation.
