The Government’s review into ozone and synthetic greenhouse gases has identified options to deliver emissions reduction equivalent to more than 80 million tonnes of carbon dioxide by 2030.
This would be achieved through reducing hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) emissions and energy savings.
Minister for the Environment, Greg Hunt, announced a review of the Government’s Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Programme in 2014.
The review is looking at new ways to reduce emissions from ozone and synthetic greenhouse gases whilst reducing regulatory compliance costs for business.
Today the Australian Government is releasing an options paper for public comment. The options paper was developed after public consultation.
Expected to be completed by early next year, the final outcomes of the review will provide business with the long term policy certainty needed to enable them to make investment decisions to introduce lower emission technology into Australia.
Synthetic greenhouse gases are commonly used as refrigerant gases in refrigeration and air conditioning equipment.
Australia has a long history of success in reducing ozone and synthetic greenhouse gas emissions in partnership with businesses that supply and use these gases.
Australia continues to show international leadership and encourage all countries to agree to a global HFC phase-down under the Montreal Protocol.
A reduction in the emissions of HFCs is an important part of Australia’s commitment.
To do this we are fast tracking work to reduce our domestic HFC emissions by 85 per cent by 2036. This is in line with the most ambitious HFC phase-down proposals under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.
More information on the review, and a copy of the options paper, is available on the Department of the Environment’s website at: www.environment.gov.au/protection/ozone/legislation