China

- After having closed down all its production plants for CFCs well ahead of the schedule of the Montreal Protocol, China - which is the world's largest producer of ozone depleting substances (ODS) - including HCFCs - enacted on June 1, 2010, the Regulations on the Administration that include controls over consumption, trade, import, export and production of remaining ODS. Annual quota limits are now required for ODS producers and consumers. These regulations will also involve high penalties. For example, facilities and systems that illegally produce ODS will be dismantled and demolished and subjected to fines of approximately USD 150000. www.unep.fr/ozonaction/information/mmcfiles/6355-e-ChinaRegulations_PR2010.pdf - From June 1, 2010, according to a new energy efficiency standard related to air conditioners, the lowest COP for market entry will be raised to 3.2 from the current 2.6 for air conditioners with a rated power output of up to 4.5 kW. www.acr-news.com/news