In BC, Halocarbons and Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) are regulated by federal and provincial legislation.

Halocarbons are greenhouse gases (GHGs) and can be ozone-depleting substances. Emissions of GHGs, including emissions of halocarbons and carbon dioxide (CO₂), are contributing to a global warming trend that is associated with climate change. Halocarbons can have global warming potentials hundreds to thousands of times greater than that of CO₂. Emissions of ozone-depleting substances contribute to the thinning and gradual destruction of the ozone layer, which provides protection to life forms on Earth from overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Overexposure to UV rays can have negative impacts on the environment and human health, contributing to the formation of skin cancer and cataracts, the weakening of the immune system, and damages to fisheries, agriculture, buildings and equipment.

Halocarbons & Ozone Depleting Substances

What are the halocarbons and ozone depleting substances regulatory requirements?

Halocarbons and Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) mixtures are used as refrigerants in air conditioning and refrigeration units. Their purchasing, use, operation and maintenance are regulated. In BC, Halocarbons and Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) are regulated by federal and provincial legislation and code of practice:

• Federal Halocarbon Regulations, 2022
• Ozone Depleting Substances and Other Halocarbons Regulation
• Environmental Code of Practice for the Elimination of Fluorocarbon Emissions from Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems (2015)
• Spill Reporting Regulation

Compliance with the above regulations ensure the following key requirements are met:

• A release of an ozone depleting substance, other halocarbon or any mixtures is promptly reported (within 24 hours) – in  accordance with the notification procedures set out in the Spill Reporting Regulation
• Developing a preventive maintenance plan for all air conditioning and refrigeration systems to prolong their life and benefit the environment
• Immediate steps are taken to stop a refrigerant release
• Only an approved person provides service for halocarbon/ODS containing equipment
• Service is performed according to the current code of practice

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How are halocarbons and ozone depleting substances applicable at UBC?

Halocarbons, ozone depleting substances and mixtures are used as refrigerants in various types of equipment at UBC:

• Chillers and air conditioning units in buildings across campus, as well as small departmental equipment
• UBC Food Services refrigeration and cooling units, located in food services facilities and cafes across campus
• Motor vehicle air conditioners
• Note: Fire suppression equipment at UBC contains no ODS

Contact UBC Building Operations Service Centre for safe removal of refrigerants by certified personnel or approved contractors
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What UBC halocarbons and ozone depleting substance forms are available?

• ODS-Release-Report-2025(fillable-pdf)

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