US environmental regulators approve new refrigerants for homes and cars

The US environmental regulators are proposing to allow several new chemicals to be used in air conditioners, refrigerators, and fire suppression systems. This means manufacturers can switch to alternatives that are less harmful to the ozone layer and the climate.

For decades, the world has been phasing out chemicals that deplete the ozone layer. This rule expands the list of approved substitutes, making it easier for companies to move away from older, more damaging refrigerants. It also updates how some existing substitutes can be used, reflecting new safety and performance data.