SPAN Launches Refrigerant Working Group to Advance Science-Based PFAS Policy and Support Critical Refrigerant Use
WASHINGTON, D.C — The Sustainable PFAS Action Network (SPAN), the nation's leading voice for risk-based PFAS management, today announced the formation of its Refrigerant Working Group, a new initiative focused on advancing practical, science-based PFAS policies that recognize the essential role refrigerants play in everyday life while meeting global climate commitments.
The working group will bring together key stakeholders, technical experts, and industry leaders to support durable PFAS policy that acknowledges the importance of refrigerants, promotes accurate public understanding of the science, and ensures policymakers recognize refrigerants as a critical essential use.
“Refrigerants are fundamental to modern society and global climate progress,” said Kevin Fay, Sustainable PFAS Action Network Executive Director. “From food preservation and healthcare to semiconductors, transportation, and data centers, refrigerants support indispensable technologies that support both public health and economic growth. Policymakers must ensure PFAS laws are carefully crafted to recognize these essential uses while focusing policy efforts where actual risk exists.”
The Refrigerant Working Group will focus on several core priorities, including:
Engaging with lawmakers and regulators to advance consistent, science-based approaches that support innovation and public confidence;
Promoting science-based information surrounding refrigerants and PFAS classifications;
Educating policymakers and stakeholders on distinctions between various refrigerants and PFAS definitions;
Developing white papers and technical resources that provide accurate, fact-based information regarding refrigerants and PFAS; and
Highlighting the importance of workable refrigerant policies to the success of international climate change agreements and emissions reduction goals.
The launch comes amid increasing acknowledgement at the state, federal, and internationals levels of the importance of science-based refrigerant and PFAS policy. While some state laws and advocacy campaigns broadly characterize refrigerants as PFAS, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has not classified most refrigerants as PFAS under its working definitions and regulatory frameworks. SPAN believes policymakers should rely on sound science and risk-based analysis rather than broad categorizations that may unintentionally undermine climate and economic objectives.
“Poorly designed refrigerant restrictions could create serious unintended consequences for consumers and the economy,” Fay added. “Global environmental agreements depend on continued access to critical refrigerants. Effective policy must balance environmental protection with technological reality and essential societal needs.”
About the Sustainable PFAS Action Network
The Sustainable PFAS Action Network (SPAN) is a coalition advocating for science-based, risk-focused PFAS policies that protect public health while preserving essential technologies and critical supply chains. SPAN works with policymakers, industry leaders, and technical experts to advance practical management frameworks grounded in sound science and real-world implementation.
