Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are organic and synthetic (i.e., human-made) chemicals consisting of carbon, chlorine and fluorine. They contain one, two or three carbon atoms and at least one atom each of chlorine and fluorine. Historically, CFCs were widely used as coolants in refrigerators and air conditioners, as aerosol propellants, as solvents in degreasers and cleaners and to dilute sterilant gas mixtures, and as blowing agents in the manufacture of all types of foam products.
As CFCs were found to deplete the stratospheric ozone layer, they became subject to a global phase-out under an international agreement: the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.
In Canada, CFCs are subject to the Ozone Depleting Substances and Halocarbon Alternatives Regulations, which prohibit the manufacture, import and export of CFCs, except for very limited and specific applications.
There is more than one CAS number that applies to this group of substances.
Risk Assessment
- CEPA 1999 Schedule 1 - List of Toxic Substances - This substance has been added to the List of Toxic Substances.
- Full life cycle management of the substance (Track 2) under the Toxic Substances Management Policy
Risk Management Tool(s)
Tool(s) developed to manage risks associated with the substance:
- Federal Halocarbon Regulations, 2022
- Ozone-depleting Substances and Halocarbon Alternatives Regulations
- Notice Requiring the Preparation and Implementation of Pollution Prevention Plans in Respect of Halocarbons Used as a Refrigerant
International engagement
Other Information
- Ozone layer
- National Pollutant Release Inventory (NPRI)
- Environmental Code of Practice for Elimination of Fluorocarbon Emissions from Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems
Contact
Ozone Protection Programs
Environment and Climate Change Canada
351 Saint-Joseph Boulevard
Gatineau QC K1A 0H3
Telephone: 819-938-4228
Email: halocarbures-halocarbons@ec.gc.ca
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