May 2012: The Technology and Economic Assessment Panel (TEAP) of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer has released the second volume of its 2012 report, which consists of a task force report on Decision XXIII/9 titled “Additional Information on Alternatives to Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS).” The report will be considered by the 32nd meeting of the Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG 32) scheduled to convene in Bangkok, Thailand, from 23-27 July 2012.

The 106-page report includes four chapters on: refrigeration and air conditioning; foams; fire protection; and solvents. The report aims to provide OEWG 32 with information on: the cost of alternatives to hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) that are technically proven, economically viable and environmentally benign; alternatives to HCFCs that are technically proven, economically viable, environmentally benign and suitable for use in high ambient temperatures, including how such temperatures may affect efficiency or other factors; quantities and types of alternatives already and projected to be phased in as replacements for HCFCs, disaggregated by application, both in parties operating under paragraph 1 of Article 5 of the Montreal Protocol and parties not so operating; and an assessment of the technical, economic and environmental feasibility of options in consultation with scientific experts. [Publication: Decision XXIII/9 Task Force Report on Additional Information on Alternatives to ODS]