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The Bigger Picture

Our role

RRA plays a pivotal role in a broader system that supports responsible Lifecycle Refrigerant Management. Strong legislation, solid licensing frameworks, and a shared commitment from government, industry and community stakeholders underpin this system.

At the heart of this collaboration is a network of organisations and individuals, including the Australian Government, the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC), importers, wholesalers, technicians, and contractors, all working together to meet environmental obligations.

RRA contributes to this collective effort by supporting environmental safety, reducing harmful emissions and promoting stewardship across the industry.

Working together

Select an element of the framework to learn more

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) – Montreal Protocol

The Montreal Protocol is a global environmental agreement administered by UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme) to protect the ozone layer by phasing out ozone-depleting substances (ODS). The universal framework of enforceable actions has led to the global reduction of ODS such as CFCs and HCFCs.

The Kigali Amendment extended the Protocol to include the phase-down of Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent synthetic greenhouse gases with high global warming potential.

Widely regarded as the most successful environmental treaty in history, the Protocol has achieved near-universal ratification and is on track to restore the ozone layer by 2075 while also delivering substantial climate benefits.

Australia’s Refrigerant Management Framework

Australian Framework

We all play a role in Lifecycle Refrigerant Management.

Australia has developed a legislative framework that combines government regulations and industry collaboration to ensure a shared responsibly for responsible management of refrigerants throughout their lifecycle.

Legislation and Regulation

Under the Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act, importers of scheduled substances, including bulk refrigerants and precharged equipment are required to hold an import licence issued by the Government (DCCEEW). A condition of the import licence is that importers are required to participate in an approved product stewardship scheme. RRA is the only approved product stewardship scheme under the act.

Industry

Industry plays a critical role through initiatives like Refrigerant Reclaim Australia’s product stewardship program.

End-Use Permit Scheme

The Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) is the national licensing body for Australia’s refrigeration and air conditioning sector. In partnership with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, ARC administers the ARCtick licensing scheme, which licenses individuals and businesses to handle refrigerant gases regulated under the Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Regulations 1995.

Recovery and Destruction

Government and industry work together to promote refrigerant recovery during servicing and at the end of life. Destruction facilities use Montreal Protocol-approved processes, ensuring environmental safety.

Compliance and Enforcement

Civil and criminal penalties support compliance alongside monitoring, record-keeping, and reporting requirements.

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