Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are refrigerant types used in cooling systems. CFCs were phased out under the Montreal Protocol due to ozone depletion, replaced by HFCs which don’t harm the ozone layer but have high global warming potential. South Africa is transitioning toward natural refrigerants and low-GWP alternatives like R744 (CO2) and R290 (propane) in compliance with the Kigali Amendment. Modern transport refrigeration units increasingly use environmentally friendly refrigerants, reducing both regulatory risk and environmental impact while maintaining cooling efficiency.
Related Terms: GWP (Global Warming Potential), Transport Refrigeration Unit (TRU), Carbon Offset (Cold Chain)