Which refrigerant is especially known for being phased out due to environmental concerns?

The refrigerant that is especially known for being phased out due to environmental concerns is R-22. This refrigerant has been linked to ozone depletion, which prompted regulations such as the Montreal Protocol. R-22, a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), releases chlorine when it breaks down in the atmosphere, which poses a significant risk to the ozone layer. As a result, the production and import of R-22 have been steadily reduced since the early 2000s, with a complete ban implemented in many regions, particularly in the U.S. by 2020.

The transition away from R-22 is part of a broader movement toward more environmentally friendly refrigerants that have lower global warming potential and are less harmful to the ozone layer. Understanding the environmental impact of refrigerants like R-22 is crucial for professionals in the air conditioning and refrigeration fields, as it shapes the regulations and practices in the industry today.