The Hidden Climate Cost of Your Old Fridge

"The average person likely does not know that throwing out an old fridge releases environmentally damaging gas."
— Chemical physicist Christopher Hansen, University of New South Wales

A Brief History of Refrigerants

HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons) were introduced as refrigerants in the 1990s after CFCs were banned for damaging the ozone layer. However, HFCs are potent greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. An international agreement in 2016 aims to phase down HFC production and use.

The Problem with Old Refrigerators

Old refrigerators, such as a 1998 model, may contain HFCs (e.g., HFC-134a) which leak over time, especially as the appliance ages. In Australia, disposing of fridges requires capturing the remaining refrigerant to prevent atmospheric release.

A critical loophole exists: equipment owners have no legal responsibility under the current refrigerant gas product stewardship scheme. The scheme only requires those who profit from refrigerant sales to facilitate recovery.

The Scale of the Issue

Paul Krummel (CSIRO) notes that HFC-134a is the most abundant HFC in the atmosphere and its concentration is increasing.

Kylie Farrelley (Refrigerant Reclaim Australia) explains that the scheme's loophole is that equipment owners have no responsibility for refrigerant recovery.

"Disposal options are not consistent across states, not harmonized, and not funded."
— Bronwyn Voyce, stewardship program expert

Voyce advocates for a mandatory whole-of-appliance stewardship scheme.

Your Disposal Options in Australia

Recycling Centres

Recycling centres must recover refrigerant before recycling. Some states (ACT, SA, WA, Victoria) ban electronic products from landfill, requiring recycling centre disposal.

Council Bulk Waste Collection

Some councils offer kerbside pickup, but the fridge must be degassed by a licensed technician first. Check with your local council for specifics.

Energy-Based Take-Back Services

• In the ACT, ActewAGL offers a buyback scheme with a $30 credit.
• South Australia previously had a similar program.

Retailer Take-Back Services

When buying a new appliance, some retailers offer removal for a fee or free.

How to Identify HFCs

Check the fridge's manual or specification plate (on door, inside wall, or back) for a refrigerant number starting with "R". Compare against the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water's HFC refrigerants guide.

Non-HFC alternatives include R-600a (isobutane).