ISSUE BRIEF Proposed California Strategy to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants

ISSUE BRIEFProposed California Strategy to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants

February 1, 2017

What change(s) are being considered?

The California Environmental Protection Agency’s Air Resources Boardis currently developing a strategy to further reduceair pollution in the State. One of the ways California is considering doing so is by reducing short-lived climate pollutant emissions (SLCP). These include black carbon (soot), methane (CH4) and fluorinated gases (F-gases, including hydrofluorocarbons or HFCs). California estimates that cooking accounts for 1% of black carbon emissions in the State and commercial refrigerants account for 42% of the State’s F-gas emissions.

TheSLCP strategy being considered supports a worldwide movement to help stall climate change by limiting global warming to below a 2°C scientifically determined threshold through 2050, an initiative that California Governor Jerry Brown also supports. The exact approach the state will deploy to achieve this goal is still in development. However, NAFEM is encouraged to see that California continues to work with industry and other agencies, stakeholders and experts to identify potential solutions.

Is this a Federal, state or local issue?

This is a State of California issue. It is important because actions taken in California are often a precursor to similar actions by other states and the federal government. There is a great deal of worldwide effort being directed towardachieving the 2°C threshold through 2050, so many states are likely considering similar approaches.

What organization is considering implementing the change(s)?

California Environmental Protection Agency’s Air Resources Board(CARB) is tasked with helping the State reduce air pollution. More information can be found at

How will this proposed changeimpact my business?

Until CARB outlines its specific approach, it is too early to know for certain how it will impact NAFEM members. Based on ongoing conversations with the agency, the State may require alternative refrigerants and changes to refrigeration equipment, such as beverage dispensers, ice cream machines, frozen beverage machines, blast freezers and chillers, commercial ice making machines, glass door merchandisers, commercial freezers, bar equipment, catering equipment, ice merchandisers, ice cream cabinets, condensing units and evaporator units.

California may also mandate changes to charbroilers used in commercial cooking. Energy efficiency, energy consumption and food safety must all be taken into consideration, along with potential unintended negative business consequences of required changes to product specifications.

What is NAFEM doing to address this issue?

NAFEM is engaged in ongoing dialogue with CARB, and pleased with the agency’s continued interest in developing collaborative solutions. We will continue to be actively involved on behalf of our members.

What should my company be doing to address this issue?

Members in California, in particular, and those selling products in the state, should closely monitor CARB’s work and its recommendations. We may ask member companies to join NAFEM’s continuing conversation with CARB, so being ready to share details about the impact a potential approach on your company will be important. Also, visit the Advocacy section of to learn more.

Who should I contact with questions?

For questions on this topic, please contact Charlie Souhrada, CFSP, NAFEM’s vice president, regulatory & technical affairs: or 312.821.0201.