From The Just-In-Time File: China Moves To Ban CFCs - Reuters

BEIJING - China has banned the production of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in line with global agreements to phase out the use of ozone layer-depleting products, the country's environmental watchdog said in a statement. Barring raw materials and aerosols used for medicinal purposes and other exempted uses, the production of CFCs would be banned from July 1, the State Environmental Protection Agency said in a notice posted on the government's official Web site (www.gov.cn) on Wednesday.

"Relevant companies must demolish equipment involved in the production of CFC substances by Aug. 15," the notice said, adding that offenders would be punished according to the law.

The chemical action of chlorine and bromine released by man-made CFCs, which are used in some refrigerants and aerosol propellants, causes damage to the ozone layer which blocks harmful ultra violet rays.

Holes in the ozone layer are blamed for increased risk of skin cancer and cataracts in humans. They may also harm crop yields and sea life, according to researchers. The order was issued in accordance with the Montreal Protocol and national plans to eliminate industrial production of CFCs, it said.

EDIT

http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/42851/story.htm

Good idea, guys!

have been manufactured but can't be used. Anybody thinking what I'm thinking?

Time to start testing the pet food for CFCs, too.......