Advancing Ozone & Climate Protection Technologies: Next Steps

Second International Conference, Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand

June 29 – 30, 2013

Concept Note

Background

Over the next few decades, the increase in hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) emissions could offset much of the climate benefit achieved by the earlier reduction in ozone-depleting substance (ODS) emissions.1 HFC use has been increasing as they are widely adopted as replacements for ODS being phased out under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. In sectors such as foam insulation, refrigeration, and air conditioning, zero- to lower-global warming potential (GWP) alternatives are in various stages of development, or may be available. While there is no “one-size fits all” alternative, a growing range of commercialized or near-commercialized options are available that protect the ozone layer and are much less harmful to the climate system than high-GWP HFCs. These existing and emerging options allow enterprises and countries to take the next steps in the phase-out of ozone-depleting chemicals, in particular hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs).

In July 2012, the “Advancing Ozone & Climate Protection Technologies: Next Steps” conference was held in Bangkok, Thailand with over 400 participants, including representatives from industry, governments, environmental organizations, and academia. The conference included presentations addressing alternatives in the refrigeration, foam, and stationary air conditioning sectors.

In June 2013, a similar conference will again be held in Bangkok with a focus on alternatives for air conditioning, foams, refrigeration, and other sectors, with a special focus on standards for climate-friendly alternatives. This conference is organized by the United Nations Development Programme, the United Nations Environment Programme, the Climate and Clean Air Coalition to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants, the United States of America, the European Commission, and the Alliance for Responsible Atmospheric Policy. The conference will be held June 29 – 30, 2013, in Bangkok, Thailand on the weekend following the meeting of the Montreal Protocol Open-Ended Working Group. This conference offers the opportunity for stakeholders to share information and updates on technologies, policies, standards, and the availability and end-uses of climate-friendly alternatives.

Approach

This conference will mainly address technical aspects of this transition, especially in the air conditioning, foams, and refrigeration sectors, with an additional focus on standards. Technical presentations will provide information on alternatives for various applications, refrigerant management best practices, and potential timelines and challenges for continued implementation of these alternatives. Presentations will be given in English; no translation services will be provided.

Potential Participants:

Participants to this conference will include Montreal Protocol delegates and policymakers; national ozone officers; climate/sustainability officers; energy efficiency proponents; industry representatives; chemical producers and suppliers; standards setting organizations; recovery/reclamation/recycling/ destruction organizations; academia; corporate leaders that use significant amounts of fluorocarbons in products and equipment; and civil society stakeholders including environmental non-governmental organizations and industry associations.

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1

UNEP 2011, HFCs: A Critical Link in Protecting Climate and the Ozone Layer – A UNEP Synthesis Report.

For further information on this year’s conference and to register, please visit www.BangkokTechConference.org and to see the final report from last year’s successful conference, please visit the CCAC website www.unep.org/ccac/.