Indicator: Fluorinated gas emissions  [2001] NOT PUBLISHED

How are the emissions of each of the gases changing, and which sectors contribute?

Figures

: Total EU emissions of fluorinated gases (HFCs, PFCs, SF6)

Note: Notes: Emissions are expressed in Global Warming Potentials with different country specific values for each of the fluorinated gases.

Data source: EEA

Downloads and more info

Assessment

The final group of greenhouse gases, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), and sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) contribute about 1.5% to total EU greenhouse gas emissions. Their global warming potentials are very high compared with carbon dioxide.

Methodologies for inventories of these gases have been developed much more recently than for the other gases. Various countries still do not report their emissions. </p> <p>In 1998 HFCs contributed 67% to the total emissions of fluorinated gases, followed by SF6 with 20%. Industry is the most significant source (99.9% in 1998) with the largest emissions of HFCs, a by-product of production of HCFC-22. The most important source for SF6 is electricity distribution (used in switches) and of PFC processes in the aluminium and electronics industries. Emissions of these gases have increased rapidly and may rise further, as HFCs continue to be substituted for substances banned under the Montreal Protocol. </p> <p>No specific targets have been set for these gases but their emissions, while small compared with the three main greenhouse gases, are relevant to achieving the Kyoto Protocol targets because of their rapid increase.

Download detailed information and factsheets

• Total EU HFCs, PFCs and SF₆ emissions ( 42  KB)

Related indicators

• Climate change indicators
• Air indicators