The American Carbon Registry (ACR), a nonprofit enterprise of Winrock International, has published a Methodology for the Quantification, Monitoring, Reporting and Verification of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reductions from the Destruction of Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) from International Sources. The Methodology builds on ACR’s existing ODS and High GWP Foam destruction methodology – applicable only for U.S. domestically sourced ODS – adding applicability, eligibility, and monitoring provisions for ODS sourced from and/or destroyed in locations outside of the U.S. and its territories.

Chloroflourocarbons (CFCs) are, amongst other uses, used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems, aerosol sprays, blowing agents for foam and solvent. CFCs are classified as Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) because they deplete the stratospheric ozone layer. Additionally, they have extremely high global warming potentials (GWPs) in most cases.

Under the Montreal Protocol, the production of CFC refrigerants is phased out. However, the use of these ODS is not prohibited. In certain situations, the ODS may be recycled but this practice leads to ODS refrigerants leaking into the atmosphere at very high rates. Worse still, ODS are sometimes vented during servicing or disposal of equipment though certain countries ban this practice. Because destruction is not mandated, unused supplies can be stored for long periods over which time they leak into the atmosphere.

The ACR Methodology provides a framework for the quantification, monitoring, reporting and verification of GHG gas emission reductions associated with the sourcing and destruction of high GWP ODS sourced from equipment, refrigeration systems, or other supplies, including but not limited to cans, cylinders, and other containers of recovered, reclaimed or unused ODS. All eligible ODS must be sourced from locations outside of the U.S. and its territories. ODS can be destroyed at facilities within and outside of the U.S. that meet the requirements in the methodology.