Halving Europe’s automotive AC emissions

The study was initiated to support authorities working on the European PFAS restriction proposal, who are exploring additional measures to reduce refrigerant emissions as an alternative risk management option.

Previously there has been a lack of industry data available to the authorities to quantify the emission reduction potential of the measures already in place and new measures that could be implemented in the context of a restriction of fluorinated refrigerants in the transport sector over the assessment period (2021-2050).

Automotive manufacturers, suppliers and refrigerant experts provided input to the technical working group. Detailed, lifecycle-based assessments of refrigerant emissions were undertaken, and comparable effectiveness of industry action and circular economy solutions in the European market considered across internal combustion, hybrid, and battery electric vehicles.

The study found that the largest emissions are caused by issues with vehicle design and emissions during the normal use of vehicles. It highlights the importance of maintenance and refrigerant recovery at end of life.

According to the study, emissions reductions could be achieved in ways that are cost neutral outcomes for consumers, as investments are offset by longer component lifetimes and avoided repair costs.

“This analysis shows that a large share of automotive refrigerant emissions can potentially be avoided using technologies and practices that already exist across today’s value chain,” says Joseph Martinko, President, Thermal & Specialized Solutions at Chemours.

“The data reinforces the importance of lifecycle‑based policy approaches that reduce emissions while preserving vehicle performance, affordability, serviceability and supporting the circularity of refrigerants.”

Read the technical report here.

---