What does CFC mean in WASTE MANAGMENT

A Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) is an anthropogenic chemical compound consisting of carbon, chlorine, and fluorine atoms. CFCs were once widely used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems but have been known to cause damage to the ozone layer and are now being phased out by alternative compounds in most places.

Chlorofluorocarbons are damaging to the ozone layer because they contain both chlorine and fluorine atoms, which can catalyze chemical reactions that convert ozone molecules into other substances. This leads to the depletion of Earth's protective ozone layer which intercepts harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun.

Hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) were developed as a replacement for CFCs as refrigerants due to their lower impact on the environment. HFOs do not contain chlorine or bromine, thus reducing the risk of damage to the ozone layer and greenhouse gas emissions.

In some countries, CFCs may still be used in old air conditioners or refrigerators that have not yet been replaced by newer models with alternative compounds. However, production of new products containing CFCs has ceased in many countries since the signing of international treaties such as Montreal Protocol and Kigali Amendment.

Recently in 2018, reports suggest that CFC-11 emissions have been increasing rather than decreasing over recent years due to illegal production and smuggling activities around China and parts of East Asia. Scientists estimate that these activities could account for up to 15% of global total emission levels.

It is essential to phase out CFC use because they are a major source of damage to Earth’s protective ozone layer which shields us from harmful UV radiation emitted from the sun. The long-term effects of this depletion can lead to increased rates of skin cancers, cataracts, weakened immune systems among many other negative impacts on human health and ecosystems worldwide.

Governments around the world are responsible for regulating production quotas and monitoring trade flows between countries with regards to chlorofluorocarbon use; however individuals also play an important role too by discarding any old appliances which contain CFCs responsibly so that they don't end up being re-used.

Countries around the world have signed several international agreements like The Montreal Protocol (1987),The Copenhagen Amendment/London amendment (1992),The Beijing Amendment/Kigali Amendment (2016) etc., in order reduce production quotas associated with industrial use of certain types of chlorofluorcarbons with an aim towards phasing them out altogether by 2025.