The Move Towards Natural and Low-GWP Refrigerants
The refrigeration sector is undergoing a transformative shift towards natural refrigerants and low-GWP (Global Warming Potential) alternatives, driven by environmental, regulatory, and economic factors. This evolution reflects a broader commitment to sustainability as industries seek to minimise their carbon footprint and improve the energy efficiency of their operations. Governments worldwide, including in the UK, are mandating the phase-out of high-GWP refrigerants to meet climate targets and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These changes are written in agreements such as the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol and regional regulations like the UK's F-Gas Regulation.
In addition to regulatory drivers, businesses are adopting sustainable practices to align with corporate environmental policies and consumer expectations. Many organisations, particularly in the retail and food service industries, are prioritising refrigerants with a lower environmental impact as part of their carbon reduction strategies. The focus is not only on direct emissions from refrigerants but also on lowering the energy consumption of refrigeration systems to reduce Scope 2 emissions. As such, selecting the right refrigerant has become a strategic decision, balancing environmental considerations, operational efficiency, and safety.
Natural refrigerants, including carbon dioxide (CO₂), hydrocarbons, and ammonia, are emerging as key solutions in this transition. CO₂, commonly known as R744, has gained widespread acceptance for medium and low-temperature applications across supermarkets, industrial refrigeration, and commercial systems. With a GWP of 1, CO₂ represents the benchmark for evaluating the climate impact of other refrigerants. It offers versatility and strong alignment with sustainability goals, though its high operating pressures require specialized system designs.
Hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs), such as R-1234yf and R-1234ze, are also gaining traction as synthetic alternatives with significantly lower GWP compared to traditional HFCs. For example, R-1234ze has a GWP of just 7, offering enhanced energy efficiency while drastically reducing its environmental impact. These refrigerants are particularly suited to commercial and transport refrigeration systems where compatibility with existing infrastructure is a priority.
Hydrocarbons like propane (R290) and isobutane (R600a) are well-suited for smaller refrigeration systems such as beverage coolers and standalone display cases. With minimal GWP and excellent thermodynamic properties, hydrocarbons are among the most environmentally friendly refrigerant options available. However, their flammability requires careful system design and adherence to stringent safety protocols.
In large industrial applications, ammonia (R717) is a preferred choice due to its zero GWP and exceptional thermodynamic properties. Ammonia systems are commonly used in food processing plants, cold storage facilities, and other industrial environments where energy efficiency and environmental performance are paramount. However, because of its toxicity and safety concerns, ammonia is typically restricted to non-public-facing applications.
As companies adopt these alternatives, the timeline for change depends on regulatory deadlines, corporate sustainability targets, and market readiness. While some organisations are transitioning during planned system upgrades or equipment replacements, others are retrofitting existing systems to accommodate greener refrigerants. The refrigeration sector is also seeing rapid advancements in technologies such as CO₂ transcritical systems and HFO-based blends, making it easier for businesses to implement sustainable solutions without compromising performance.
The shift to natural and low-GWP refrigerants represents a vital step in mitigating climate change. By adopting these environmentally friendly alternatives, companies are not only ensuring compliance with current regulations but also future-proofing their operations in an increasingly sustainability-focused marketplace. As the industry continues to evolve, staying informed about regulatory developments and emerging technologies will be essential for businesses seeking to lead in this green transition.