The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has expanded the list of acceptable substitutes under its Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program by adding four new substitutes for refrigeration and air conditioning as well as foam blowing sectors. These substitutes include R-471A, R-480A, and R-513A for various refrigeration uses, and a blend of HFO-1336mzz(Z), HFO-1234ze(E), HFC-152a, and CO2 for foam blowing. These alternatives are considered to have minimal environmental impact with lower global warming potential compared to existing substitutes and are intended to replace ozone-depleting substances. The EPA made its decisions after assessing the health and environmental risks associated with each substitute, ensuring they do not pose greater risks than current options.
Simple Explanation
The EPA has added four new helpers to replace old, harmful chemicals in things like fridges and foam, which are softer on our Earth and don't hurt the special air above us that keeps the sun from burning us too much.