Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) recently issued CN 18-25 to advise importers and exporters of the changes to the Ozone-depleting Substances and Halocarbon Alternatives Regulations import and export requirements.
The amendment introduces new provisions relating to:
- a) The phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and consumption allowance provisions, which replace the permit system for bulk new HFCs;
HFCs are used as alternatives to ozone-depleting substances in refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment, foam products, and aerosol products. Although they are effective alternatives to ODS, many are powerful greenhouse gases. The three most commonly used HFCs are: HFC-125, HFC-134a and HFC-245fa.
- b) Certain products containing or designed to contain HFCs, for which the manufacture and import is prohibited:
- a. Pressurized containers containing 2kg or less of an HFC used as a propellant that has a global warming potential greater than 150 (prohibited as of January 1, 2019)
- b. Automobiles equipped with air-conditioning systems with an HFC listed in Schedule 1 of the ODSHAR that has a global warming potential greater than 150 (model year 2021 and subsequent)
- c. Plastic foam or rigid foam product in which an HFC listed in Schedule 1 of the ODSHAR was used as a foaming agent if the global warming potential of the HFC is greater than 150 (prohibited as of January 1, 2021)
- d. Refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment (prohibited as of January 1, 2020 or 2025, based on the type of equipment and the use listed in Schedule 1.1 of the ODHSAR).
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) authorizes importers and exporters to import or export ODS and HFCs and products containing or designed to contain these substances by issuing a permit to import or export and/or by issuing an allowance (for HCFCs and HFCs only) or a transfer of allowance.
Any questions to permits or allowances should be referred to the Chemical Production Division of ECCC at ec.gestionhalocarbures-halocarbonsmanagement.ec@canada.ca or 819-938-4218.