By Michael Labacher – head of environmental services: A-Gas
As the world phases out the production of HCFCs and moves into the beginning stages of the phasing down of HFCs, the focus has shifted toward adopting lower-GWP refrigerants.
This global transition aligns with international efforts – such as those seen in Europe – to ultimately move toward refrigerants with a GWP (Global Warming Potential) of less than 150.
While the shift to environmentally friendly gases is essential, the management of the existing installed base of refrigerants, including Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HFCs) and Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) is equally critical.
If these refrigerants are leaked or vented into the atmosphere, decades of progress achieved through the Montreal Protocol, Kigali Amendment and industry- wide environmental initiatives could be undone. This emphasises the urgent need for effective refrigerant recovery which forms a critical part of Lifecycle Refrigerant Management (LRM).
In South Africa, as HCFC phase-out deadlines approach, the industry is adopting next-generation refrigerants. It is essential that the existing installed base is properly recovered and managed in an environmentally responsible manner. Venting refrigerants into the atmosphere is not only illegal but highly irresponsible.
Proper LRM ensures that every kilogram of refrigerant is recovered, handled, processed and either reclaimed or destroyed to minimise environmental harm.
For over 30 years, A-Gas has built its global business around delivering end-to- end LRM solutions. These include recovery networks, reclaim centres, separation columns and destruction facilities – ensuring that every molecule of refrigerant is accounted for and responsibly managed.
To support the South African industry, A-Gas provides a range of channels that make proper refrigerant recovery simple and accessible:
- Refri-Claim: Recovery cylinders are available free of charge for the first 30 days, after which standard rental applies. Contractors can obtain cylinders through dedicated wholesalers nationwide, like Metraclark, to recover refrigerant for reclaim or destruction. When refrigerant is returned, A-Gas/Metraclark issues an Environmental Stewardship Certificate, which shows the total CO2t abated from atmosphere. End users must retain this certificate as proof of responsible disposal.
- Tank services: For clients who own their own recovery cylinders, A-Gas’s Rapid Recovery team recovers refrigerant from their filled cylinders which allows contractors to continue working seamlessly, and an Environmental Stewardship Certificate is issued for all recovered refrigerants A-Gas receives.
- Rapid recovery: A-Gas Rapid Recovery provides a high-speed on-site refrigerant recovery service. Using recovery equipment up to 10 times faster than conventional systems, the team can complete complex recoveries, including those requiring hoses to reach heights over 80m. Equipment, cylinders and trained personnel are provided, and a Recovery Certificate is issued upon completion.
- Drop-A-Dispo: This channel offers contractors a convenient responsible way to drop off their used/unwanted disposable refrigerant cylinders in collection crates at their nearest Metraclark branch. A-Gas will then collect disposables and safely recover any residue gas left in them and reclaim or destroy the gas responsibly.
A-Gas now pays for recovered refrigerant
To encourage responsible handling and support the circular economy, A-Gas now pays for eligible recovered refrigerant. This initiative rewards contractors and end users who participate in proper recovery programmes, reducing illegal venting and expanding the supply of reclaimed product back into the market. This ensures that valuable refrigerants remain within a controlled, environmentally sustainable lifecycle.
Proper refrigerant recovery requires that contractors avoid mixing gases in cylinders. Proper segregation is crucial for effective lifecycle management.
Once A-Gas receives recovered refrigerant, it is sorted for reclamation or destruction. Reclaimed refrigerants are cleaned and restored to meet AHRI 700 specifications, verified in A-Gas’s certified laboratory. These refrigerants are then reintroduced to the market.
Refrigerants not suitable for reclamation are sent to TEAP-approved destruction facilities, where they are incinerated at temperatures above 1 200°C.
A shared environmental responsibility
LRM is more than regulatory compliance – it is a critical environmental obligation. Through participation in recovery and reclamation programmes, industry stakeholders can help safeguard the environment, preserve the gains made through global climate agreements and contribute meaningfully to long-term sustainability.