Recovery and recycling have an important role to play in the move away from ozone depleting substances. This is recognised by EC Regulation 2037/2000. Article 16 obliges users to recover controlled substances from commercial and industrial refrigeration and air conditioning equipment, equipment containing solvents and fire fighting equipment.
Recycling reduces the demand for new production and as the supply of ozone depleting substances decreases, recycling will become increasingly important for those uses where satisfactory alternatives do not yet exist. Private sector schemes are also in operation by the manufacturers and by the retailers and specialist recycling companies, mainly to recycle fire extinguishing gases and refrigerants. In addition a number of trade associations have issued a code of practice governing the recovery and recycling of CFCs, maintenance of equipment and leakage prevention.
In February 1993, the first 'halon bank' in the world, the Halon Users National Consortium (HUNC) was set up by a number of halon users and the fire-protection industry to ensure that the existing stocks of halon in the UK were managed efficiently. HUNC acts like a clearinghouse, putting those who need to continue using halons in contact with those who have recovered material from decommissioned systems. HUNC is a non-profit making organisation. It is funded by members' subscriptions rather than a levy on sales. The Scottish Government are not responsible for the content of this site.
Further information on recovery and recycling of refrigeration equipment, visit letsrecycle.com or visit the www.sort-it.org.uk for advice on recycling and contacts Local Authorities in Scotland.
Halon
Under EC Regulation 2037/2000 on substances that deplete the ozone layer, halon fire-protection systems and fire extinguishers were required to be decommissioned by December 31, 2003 , and the halons recovered. It is now illegal to use such extinguishers , but it is not illegal to possess them. There are a few exemptions but these are mainly military uses.
Halon is being phased-out as it is an ozone depleting substance and also has a very high global warming potential. For this reason it is important that halon is disposed of and destroyed in a responsible and environmentally sound manner. If the halon contained in your hand held fire extinguisher or fire system is not disposed of properly, it may undermine the benefits that the Regulation was designed to achieve.
Handheld fire extinguishers:
Any remaining hand-held fire extinguishers containing halon should be coloured green or with a green border with the word "halon" or "BCF " written clearly on them. This should enable them to be more easily identified. Companies that can offer advice can be found at Halon Users National Consortium (HUNC). Or contact your Local Authority Recycling areas.