Refrigerant Transition Towards Sustainable Heating and Cooling Systems: Technical, Safety and Environmental Aspects

The growing use of heat pumps in the energy transition increases the importance of selecting refrigerants that simultaneously meet the requirements of energy efficiency, safety and environmental sustainability. The aim of the paper is to analyse the technical, safety and environmental characteristics of modern refrigerants and their role in the transition to more sustainable heating and cooling systems. The research is based on a review of scientific literature, international standards and European Union regulatory documents, with an emphasis on ODP and GWP indicators, refrigerant safety classification, and applicable environmental and safety requirements. The results show that regulatory requirements and climate goals are accelerating the phase-out of high-GWP refrigerants. R32 is identified as a relevant transitional solution, while R290 stands out because of its very low environmental impact and good thermodynamic properties, although it requires enhanced safety measures due to its flammability. HFO fluids provide low-GWP options for selected applications, although their long-term environmental and regulatory status requires further assessment. It is concluded that the assessment of the sustainability of refrigeration systems must include energy, safety, environmental and regulatory criteria, as well as life cycle indicators such as TEWI and LCCP.