UK: The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs launches new UK system to limit F-gases in no-deal Brexit scenario –
On 11th February 2019, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) launched a new system to ensure the current restrictions on the use of fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases) are maintained in the event of a no-deal Brexit. If the UK leaves the EU on 29 March without a deal, businesses that produce or trade in these gases or products that contain them will have to register on the new system by 12 April. It enables companies to apply for licences and quotas and submit annual reports.
This will replace the current system that controls emissions for all EU member states. The move is part of the commitment for the UK to phase down the use of F gas by 79% between 2015-30 to combat climate change.
Organisations looking to secure an F-gas quota for the first time would need to wait until after 12th April before they can use it to import gas – anyone registering after the date will not get a quote for 2019.
Organisations in the UK that export F-gas or ODSs, or products containing them, to the EU would need to set up an office in the region or appoint an ‘Only Representative’ to meet EU regulations.
Also, technicians qualified in the UK to service products that use F gas or ODSs, such as refrigerators and air-conditioners, will continue to be authorised to operate in the UK but not in the EU. Technicians certified in the UK who work in the EU should monitor decisions made by the EU Commission and member state governments.
Source:
New system launched to maintain environmental standards on harmful gases in No Deal Brexit scenario, published on 11th February 2019 on the Government webpage.
