Despite international commitments to reduce emissions of ultra-potent greenhouse gases such as HFC-23, current measurements suggest that their emissions are up to five times higher than what governments report, underscoring shortcomings in monitoring and implementing climate policies designed to limit global warming.

What is HFC-23 and why is it problematic?

HFC-23 (hydrofluorocarbon) is a by-product of the production of refrigerants used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems. This gas has a global warming potential (GWP) 12,400 times greater than carbon dioxide (CO₂), making it one of the most potent greenhouse gases on Earth.

HFC-23 is considered a waste product that should be properly captured and disposed of to prevent it from escaping into the atmosphere. Many countries have committed to eliminating its emissions under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, but current data suggests that these commitments are only partially being met.

Global HFC-23 Emissions: Reality vs. Reports

According to atmospheric measurements conducted by the Global Monitoring Laboratory, HFC-23 emissions are approximately five times higher than those reported by individual countries. For example:

• In 2022, global HFC-23 emissions reached an estimated 15 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent, with official reports declaring less than 3 million tonnes.
• The largest producers of this gas are countries with developed chemical industries, such as China and India, but accurate data is lacking.

Why do commitments fail?

Despite clear goals to phase out HFC-23, several key issues have emerged:

1. Insufficient monitoring:
   Countries often lack effective systems to track and verify their emissions, and most data is based on estimates, not actual measurements.
2. Economic costs:
   The phase-out of HFC-23 requires investments in special technologies, which are financially difficult for some countries.
3. Lack of transparency:
   Some governments and companies do not provide accurate information about their emissions practices, making international monitoring difficult.
4. Insufficient implementation of agreements:
   The Kigali Amendment, adopted in 2016, aims to phase down the use of HFCs. However, not all countries have met their commitments within the set timeframes.

Consequences of the continued HFC-23 leak

1. Faster global warming:
   The high GWP of HFC-23 means that even relatively small amounts of this gas can contribute significantly to global warming. If emissions are not reduced, the likelihood of exceeding the critical warming limit of 1.5°C will approach.
2. Increasing adaptation costs:
   The consequences of climate change, such as more frequent floods, droughts and extreme temperatures, will require greater investment in adaptation measures.
3. Undermining trust in international agreements:
   If countries fail to meet their commitments, it could undermine confidence in future climate agreements and slow progress in global cooperation.

Possible solutions

1. Improving monitoring systems:
   Using more accurate atmospheric measurements combined with satellite technologies can help to accurately identify sources of HFC-23 emissions.
2. Increase in funding:
   Richer countries could provide financial support to developing countries to implement technologies to phase out HFC-23.
3. Stricter control and sanctions:
   International organizations, such as the UN, could impose stricter sanctions on countries that fail to comply with their commitments.
4. Support for innovation:
   Investments in research and development can bring about new, cheaper and more efficient ways to dispose of HFC-23 and other harmful gases.

The release of HFC-23 into the atmosphere is a warning sign that international agreements are not enough without adequate monitoring and implementation. If we want to avoid the worst consequences of climate change, we need greater transparency, financing and cooperation between countries. The years we have to reduce these emissions are quickly running out – it is time to act. Spring