What type of refrigerant is typically associated with high global warming potential?

The selection of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) as the refrigerant associated with high global warming potential is supported by scientific assessments of their environmental impact. HCFCs were developed as transitional substitutes for the more harmful hydrochlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), but they still possess a significant greenhouse gas effect.

HCFCs can have a high global warming potential because they can remain in the atmosphere long enough to contribute to the greenhouse effect. The contribution to global warming stems from their ability to trap heat, making their presence in the atmosphere particularly concerning. In contrast, other options such as ammonia and carbon dioxide have different characteristics and environmental impacts. Ammonia, while effective as a refrigerant, does not have a high global warming potential, and carbon dioxide is often regarded as having a negligible impact compared to traditional refrigerants.

HFOs, although they are designed to have lower global warming potentials, reflect ongoing efforts to move towards more environmentally friendly alternatives, distinctly separating them from HCFCs when it comes to the assessment of climate impact. Therefore, the association of HCFCs with high global warming potential is well-documented and underscores the importance of transitioning to low-GWP refrigerants.