SUPPORT for curbs on the production and consumption of HFCs gained momentum at this week's Montreal Protocol meeting in Bangkok. While, as expected, no decision was taken on the future of these refrigerants, 91 countries signed a declaration of support for what has popularly been dubbed a phase-down. This was a significant increase on last year's meeting when only 41 countries showed support for the idea. However, three of the most influential developing countries - China, India and Brazil - argued for further discussions of the amendments proposed by the USA, Mexico, Canada and the Federated States of Micronesia.
The Declaration on the Global Transition Away From HCFCs and CFCs, which has been signed by the UK and other European states, says that it recognises that HFCs are replacements for the ozone depleting substances being phased out under the Montreal Protocol but that the projected increase in their use 'is a major challenge for the world's climate system that must be addressed through concerted international action.'