SEA Network discusses low-GWP alternatives to HCFCs and HFCs

UNEP’s OzonAction Compliance Assistance Programme (CAP) organized a Network Meeting for Southeast Asia National Ozone Officers (NOOs) in collaboration with Malaysia’s Department of Environment in Penang from 22 to 25 April 2025. The event aimed to support Montreal Protocol compliance, particularly in achieving the 67.5% reduction in hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) consumption and the 2025 hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) consumption freeze.

The meeting included 26 participants from ten SEA countries and featured plenary and breakout sessions. Representatives from international organizations such as the Ozone Secretariat, Multilateral Fund Secretariat, UNDP, UNIDO, World Bank, UNEP Cool Coalition, and government and industry experts from Australia, China, Japan, and Malaysia also attended.

Discussions focused on low Global Warming Potential (GWP) and energy efficient alternatives to HCFCs and HFCs. Participants explored policy and technical developments, shared experiences, and examined ways to integrate these alternatives into phase-out and phase-down strategies. Additional topics included updates on Montreal Protocol meetings, digitalization of licensing and reporting systems, gender mainstreaming, and upcoming 2025 CAP services.

Participants visited Zun Utara Industry Sdn. Bhd., a manufacturer of commercial refrigeration equipment. The visit showcased manufacturing processes using cyclopentane-based rigid polyurethane insulation and refrigeration systems operating with refrigerants including R-290.

“Countries exchanged their challenges on limited information on alternative technology and learned more about low GWP alternatives to HCFC and HFC. This network meeting and the site visit helped us enhance our knowledge on available and suitable alternative technologies that are technically and commercially viable in this region,” said Nolan B. Francisco, Supervising Environmental Management Specialist, National Ozone Unit Programme Manager, Philippines.

The meeting contributed to identifying technical and policy measures to support the adoption of viable low-GWP and energy efficient alternatives and reinforce Montreal Protocol institutions. The CAP team acknowledged the financial support of the Multilateral Fund and the collaboration of Malaysia’s Department of Environment.