Definition: Certification or verification that refrigeration systems use natural refrigerants (CO₂, ammonia, hydrocarbons) with low or zero Global Warming Potential (GWP), demonstrating environmental responsibility.
Why It Matters: HFC refrigerant phase-down is accelerating globally. Kigali Amendment requires reduction of high-GWP refrigerants. Natural refrigerants provide long-term operational certainty.
Natural Refrigerants:
– CO₂ (R744): GWP=1, non-flammable, high pressure
– Ammonia (R717): GWP=0, toxic, industrial use
– Propane (R290): GWP=3, flammable, commercial refrigeration
– Isobutane (R600a): GWP=3, domestic refrigerators
Certification Benefits:
– Future-proof investment (no phase-out risk)
– Reduced carbon footprint
– Often improved energy efficiency
– Corporate sustainability reporting
Related Terms: GWP, Refrigerant, F-Gas, Kigali Amendment, Sustainability