RECLAIM R22 levels are still too low according to the British Refrigeration Association which has collected data on the amount of R22 recovered and either sent for destruction or reclaimed back for reuse.
The BRA Market Survey 2007, which was compiled for the first time from data submitted by all major refrigerant distributors, shows the amount of virgin R22 sold in 2007 was over 1900 tonnes, all of it used to service existing R22 systems.
The survey data reveals the amount of R22 reclaimed in 2007 was just over 200 tonnes - amounting to 12% of the current demand.
A spokesman for the BRA said 'The amount of R22 returned for reclaim must increase dramatically if industry is to meet the likely demand post the ban from January 1 2010'.
The BRA survey contains data on sales volume and value of equipment and components sold into the refrigeration industry.
The research also found the quantity of virgin R22 sold in 2007 was close to 30% less than that sold in 2004. The BRA said this reflected those in the industry that have chosen to move away from HCFCs in good time.
The BRA has published a fact finder that gives the various options available to reduce the dependence of industry on R22 and other HCFCs. (Fact Finder Number 14).
The British Refrigeration Association is part of the Federation of Environmental Trade Association (FETA).
The BRA Fact Finder No 14 and information about BRA is available from
www.feta.co.uk