By now the phase-out of HCFCs is common knowledge, and that some sort of quota system which will be developed by SARS, which will be implemented by government to ensure that companies import less and less of these ODS as stipulated by the 2013 baseline freeze.

We all know that the phase-out will affect everyone, from the small to the massive (mines), and will cost industries in excess of millions whether they implement natural gas or alternative refrigerants, in a time when many companies still struggle to recover from the recession.

The irony of the situation is that many companies will import disproportionate amounts of cheap HCFC refrigerant before the baseline freeze.

After the freeze the market will obviously adapt to the increased prices of alternatives, which of course will affect the consumer.

The real question is whether those companies with a whole stockyard of HCFCs are going to sell it at the true price or at the price of alternative refrigerants after the market has adapted?

Most consumers won’t of course know the difference between an alternative and a HCFC, which means they are going to be ripped-off. Luckily there will be some relief as the Consumer Protection Act comes into working in October this year.

Still, the responsibility lies on the consumer to make sure he/she is aware what is actually being bought, and the environmental impact of the product. I am especially referring to complete refrigerant units and air-conditioners which might be charged with HFCFs but sold under the impression of being recharged with an alternative, or the serial number and specification might even be replaced.

This might be seen as an ideal business opportunity, but actually unethical!