Building High Integrity Methodologies to Enable Scaled Lifecycle Refrigerant Management in Developing Countries

Abstract

　The Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol phases down the upstream production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), yet assumes that the entire installed bank will be emitted to the atmosphere over time. Lifecycle refrigerant management (LRM) posits that these downstream emissions can and should be mitigated. Despite the availability of technologies for mitigation, scaling LRM faces significant barriers, particularly in Article 5 countries (or developing countries), where limited infrastructure and financial resources hinder widespread implementation. Carbon markets offer a potential solution by providing financial incentives to overcome these challenges in the near-term. In this study, we examine past failures of carbon markets in addressing HFC emissions and draw lessons from these experiences. We then assess existing methodologies and identify a crucial gap in carbon crediting frameworks—specifically, the lack of mechanisms for HFC destruction in Article 5 contexts. We propose new methodology recommendations designed to fill this gap, ensuring adherence to the Integrity Council to the Voluntary Carbon Market’s Core Carbon Principles. We emphasize additionality, transparency and sound incentive structures, offering a viable path forward for leveraging carbon markets to mitigate HFC emissions. Ultimately, we argue that such an approach can accelerate the deployment of LRM strategies and help address the growing climate impact of HFCs, particularly in regions that face significant infrastructure and financial constraints.