China Launches 11 Key Actions to Slash Ozone Depleting Substances by 97 Percent

On April 23, 2025, China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment announced a major move by releasing the National Plan (2025–2030) for fulfilling its obligations under the Montreal Protocol. The new roadmap outlines an aggressive approach to tackle both ozone depletion and climate change, while promoting green, low-carbon growth across industries.

The plan highlights 11 specific measures across four dimensions: source control, process management, end-of-life handling, and import-export regulation. Key actions include strict quota licensing for the production and sale of controlled substances, mandatory record filing for sales units, and automatic monitoring requirements for facilities with high by-product output.

In a significant shift, the plan bans the use of HCFCs as foaming agents, solvents, and cleaners in industries like polyurethane foam and extruded polystyrene from July 1, 2026. Other sectors must completely phase out HCFCs by 2030. Moreover, M1 category vehicles must eliminate refrigerants with a GWP above 150 starting July 1, 2029, with strong encouragement for natural refrigerant technologies across automotive, appliance, and cold-chain industries.

China is also stepping up recycling and destruction management for equipment containing controlled substances, mandating registration and detailed data reporting from service providers. Traceability systems for regenerated refrigerants will be implemented to prevent illegal practices.

Tightened import-export controls include quota licensing and approval document standardization. Except for exempted special uses, the import of HCFCs and already-phased-out substances will no longer be allowed. Measures to combat illegal trade will also be reinforced.

The Ministry confirmed that China has already completely eliminated seven major categories of ODS and is on track to phase out HCFCs and HFCs. The national plan sets ambitious targets: by 2025, a 67.5% cut in HCFC production and a 73.2% cut in usage, rising to 97.5% by 2030. For HFCs, a 10% reduction against baseline levels is expected by 2029.

China’s decisive new actions show its commitment to environmental leadership on the global stage.