Fridges and other cooling appliances are classified as hazardous waste in the UK due to the presence of harmful gases and chemicals in their cooling systems. Most fridges use a refrigerant gas called chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) or hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) to cool the air inside the unit. These gases are known to have a damaging effect on the ozone layer and are therefore regulated by international agreements such as the Montreal Protocol and the Kyoto Protocol.
When fridges are disposed of improperly, either by being sent to landfill or incinerated, these gases can be released into the atmosphere and contribute to ozone depletion and climate change. Additionally, older fridges and freezers may contain other hazardous materials such as asbestos insulation or polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in their electrical components, which can pose a risk to human health and the environment.
To ensure safe and responsible disposal, UK law requires that fridges and other cooling appliances be treated as hazardous waste and disposed of in a specific manner. This includes removing the gases and chemicals from the cooling system prior to disposal, which can be done through a process called degassing. By properly handling and disposing of fridges and other cooling appliances, we can reduce their impact on the environment and protect human health.