Which refrigerant was the first to be phased out due to the Montreal Protocol?

The Montreal Protocol, an international treaty established to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production of numerous substances responsible for ozone depletion, primarily targeted chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Among those, CFC-12 was one of the most widely used refrigerants at the time and was among the first to be identified for phasing out due to its harmful effects on the ozone layer.

The protocol recognized CFCs as significant contributors to ozone depletion, leading to their restriction and eventual phase-out in favor of more environmentally friendly alternatives. While other refrigerants, such as R-134a, HCFC-22, and HFC-410A, have also been subject to regulations, CFC-12 was specifically the first major refrigerant to face such stringent control measures under the Montreal Protocol.

Understanding the timeline and context of the Montreal Protocol's impact on refrigerants highlights the global effort to reduce ozone depletion and protect the environment, emphasizing the importance of transitioning to sustainable alternatives in refrigeration and air conditioning technologies.