The Government has launched a new online system for the UK to maintain current restrictions on the use of fluorinated greenhouse gases in the event of a no deal Brexit.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said the system will control the use of harmful greenhouse gases, including those used in refrigerators and air conditioners and ozone depleting substances.
Defra said that if the UK leaves the EU on 29 March without a deal, businesses that produce or trade in these gases or products that contain them will have to register on the new system by 12 April. It enables companies to apply for licences and quotas and submit annual reports.
This will replace the current system that controls emissions for all EU member states.
The move is part of the commitment for the UK to phase down the use of F gas by 79% between 2015-30 to combat climate change.
Environment Minister Thérèse Coffey said: “Delivering a negotiated deal with the EU remains the Government’s top priority, but it is the job of a responsible Government to ensure we are prepared for all scenarios, including no deal.
“The new system is part of the Government’s commitment to maintain environmental standards once we leave the EU. The continued phase out of harmful greenhouse gases is critical to the global fight against climate change.”
Image by Open Grid Scheduler, public domain
