Which refrigerant is specifically designed to align with environmentally friendly standards in A/C systems?

The refrigerant designed to align with environmentally friendly standards in A/C systems is carbon dioxide, or CO2. CO2 is considered a natural refrigerant with a very low global warming potential (GWP), making it an environmentally sustainable option compared to many synthetic refrigerants. Its use helps reduce the overall environmental impact of cooling systems, as it does not contribute to ozone depletion and has a minimal effect on climate change.

In contrast, while R-134a is more eco-friendly than older refrigerants like R-12, it still has a relatively high GWP compared to CO2. R-410A, while popular for its efficiency in newer systems, is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) that contributes to global warming. R-12 is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) that has long been phased out due to its severe impact on the ozone layer, demonstrating how refrigerants have evolved towards more eco-conscious alternatives. Therefore, carbon dioxide stands out as a leading choice for meeting contemporary environmental standards in air conditioning systems.