EPA considers next steps to ban HFCs

In early May, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) hosted a stakeholder meeting to discuss how the agency might proceed in developing a response to the U.S. Circuit Court vacating the 2015 Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) Rule that attempted to ban the use of certain hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) commonly used in a number of commercial foodservice equipment categories. Those attending largely supported the SNAP concept as part of a global effort to prevent further global warming. They agreed that a nationwide approach is needed soon to avoid individual states like California setting their own standards. EPA is evaluating the stakeholder input and will respond with its next steps soon. NAFEM will continue to monitor and report on these developments.