ACR, a nonprofit enterprise of Winrock International, has approved version 3.0 to the methodology entitled: Emission Reduction Measurement and Monitoring Methodology for the Transition to Advanced Formulation Blowing Agents in Foam Manufacturing and Use. The methodology was developed by ACR. Version 3.0 updates previous versions that were developed in partnership with Dentons U.S., LLP, Foam Supplies, Inc., Global Chemical Consultants, and Susan Wood Consulting. True Manufacturing, Inc., cooperated with version 2.0 of this methodology.
It is common for foam used in certain technologies to be produced using blowing agents that contain hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) which are released during foam manufacture, use, and at end-of-life. According to the EPA Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions and Sinks, industrial process emissions account for over 300 MMT CO2e/year, over half of which is from chemicals such as HFCs.
HFCs have relatively high global warming potentials and are also considered short-lived climate pollutants so mitigating emissions of HFC is important for limiting near term climate impacts. In fact, emissions of HFCs are considered one of the fastest growing sources of GHG emissions globally and there is currently no globally agreed phase out schedule for HFC consumption or production.
Alternatives to these HFC-based blowing agents are available but are not currently commonly used in certain segments of the foam manufacturing industry. The eligible sectors included in the methodology are as follows:
- Extruded polystyrene boardstock
- Two-component rigid polyurethane spray foam
- Rigid polyurethane foam used in residential refrigerators and freezers
- Rigid polyurethane injected foam used in the following sub-applications:
- Marine flotation or buoyancy
- Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Air Handling Systems
- Refrigerated Transport
- Industrial Refrigeration Systems
- Garage and entry doors
- Retail Food Refrigeration
