What are F-gases and why are they harmful?

Fluorinated gases (F-gases) are man-made gases used in a range of industrial applications. F-gases are often used as substitutes for ozone-depleting substances because they do not damage the atmospheric ozone layer. However, F-gases are powerful greenhouse gases, with an even higher warming potential than carbon dioxide (CO₂). They thus contribute greatly to climate change.

To control emissions from F-gases, including hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), the European Union has adopted two legislative acts: the F-gas Regulation and the MAC (Mobile Air Conditioning systems) Directive. The EEA contributes by collecting data reported by companies on the production, import, export, destruction and feedstock use of F-gases in the EU. These data are published in the Fluorinated greenhouse gases report on an annual basis.