This guide explains what refrigerants and fugitive emissions are, how they contribute to Scope 1 emissions, and why monitoring and reporting them is crucial. It provides guidance on identifying relevant gases, calculating their CO2 equivalents, and offers tips for accurate data collection.

Understanding scope 1 emissions from refrigerants and fugitive Emissions

There are many gases used by businesses that have a significant global warming potential. For example, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), and perfluorocarbons (PFCs) are commonly used as refrigerant gases.

Any leakages or releases to the atmosphere of these gases should be monitored and entered as part of your submission, they are classed as ‘Scope 1 emissions’.

You may find them used in:

• Refrigeration and air conditioning equipment, including household refrigeration, domestic, air conditioning and heat pumps, mobile air conditioning, chillers, retail food refrigeration, cold storage warehouses, refrigerated transport, industrial process refrigeration, and commercial unitary air conditioning systems.
• Fixed and portable fire suppression equipment.
• Purchased industrial gases. These gases can be used in processes such as manufacturing, testing, or laboratory applications.