The EPA hails the arrest of California man accused of smuggling illicit air coolants into the US

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration is hailing the arrest of a California man accused of smuggling illicit air coolants into the United States, saying the apprehension is the first of its kind and a sign of vigorous enforcement of initiatives to combat climate change.

Michael Hart of San Diego was charged with smuggling hydrofluorocarbons, a highly potent greenhouse gas also known as HFCs, under a law that bans the import of a gas once commonly used in refrigerators and air conditioners.

“The illegal smuggling of hydrofluorocarbons, a highly potent greenhouse gas, undermines international efforts to combat climate change,’' said David Uhlmann, assistant administrator for enforcement at the Environmental Protection Agency. “Anyone who seeks to profit from illegal actions that worsen climate change must be held accountable.’'

Hart, 58, was charged Monday under a 2020 law aimed at reducing use of HFCs that contribute to global warming. A federal indictment alleges that he purchased refrigerants in Mexico and smuggled them into the United States in his vehicle, with the contraband concealed under a tarp and tools. According to the indictment, Hart posted the refrigerants for sale on Facebook Marketplace and other sites.

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