What Are the Alternatives to Ozone-Depleting Substances and Their Toxicological Implications?
Replacing ODS has necessitated the development of alternative chemicals, such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). While HFCs do not deplete the ozone layer, some are potent greenhouse gases and contribute to climate change. The transition to these alternatives has raised new toxicological concerns, including their potential impact on human health and the environment. The protocol's Kigali Amendment, adopted in 2016, addresses these concerns by aiming to phase down the use of HFCs, highlighting the ongoing evolution of the treaty in response to new scientific understanding.
