REAL Alternatives 4 LIFE is a project whose aim is to produce new learning materials andpractical training programmes for Refrigeration Air conditioning and Heat Pump (RACHP)technicians with the ambitious scope to extend awareness of the use of alternativerefrigerants with low Global Warming Potential (GWP) across Europe.
The phase down of Fluorinated Gases under the EU F-Gas Regulation is driving the increased use of alternative low GWP refrigerants. The awareness of the environmental benefits of changing to low GWP refrigerants is increasing and the demand for cooling services continues to grow. Low GWP alternative refrigerants offer a solution to the issue of harmful direct emissions that contribute to climate change, but they bring with themnew technical difficulties requiring a higher level of competence amongst techniciansto ensure safe handling and operation.
This project which was co-funded by industry partners and the EU LIFE programme, started on 15th June 2017. It is aimed at upskilling and training technicians to use alternativerefrigerants in a safe, efficient and reliable manner. It also produced training resources that can be replicated throughout the EU and beyond through the training and licensingof training providers who can deliver practical courses based on these materials, ensuring long term sustainability and replicability of the project results. The content of the learning material focuses on the following alternative refrigerants: Flammables (Hydrocarbon,HFO/A2L, R32), Carbon Dioxide and Ammonia.The project is of strategic relevance to member countries of the EU as it addresses critical policy areas of climate protection, fight against global warming, and effective implementation of EU environmental regulation.
This project report summarises the aims and achievements of the 3 year project: