Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) MVAC Certification

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HFC-134a contributes mainly to which environmental concern?

Ozone depletion
Global warming
Water pollution
Soil degradation

The correct answer is: Global warming

HFC-134a, also known as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, is primarily recognized for its contribution to global warming. This refrigerant is a hydrofluorocarbon, and like other HFCs, it possesses a high global warming potential (GWP). The GWP indicates the amount of heat trapped in the atmosphere over a specific time frame, typically compared to carbon dioxide. HFC-134a is less damaging to the ozone layer compared to its predecessors, like CFCs and HCFCs, which were known to deplete the ozone layer significantly. As a result, while HFC-134a is designed to be ozone-friendly, its potency as a greenhouse gas raises concerns regarding climate change and global warming. This is why understanding its contributions to global warming is critical for managing refrigerants and mitigating environmental impacts.