Biden administration battles potent gas smugglers

The Biden administration has launched a new initiative to crack down on smugglers at U.S. borders and ports. The concern isn’t drugs or counterfeit goods, but a refrigerant that’s a dangerous greenhouse gas — HFCs. The EPA, CBP, and other agencies are using AI tools and strategic partnerships to combat this threat, with recent successes in intercepting illegal shipments of HFCs.

Deep cuts drive demand

HFCs are used in refrigeration and must be phased down by 2036 under the AIM Act. This has led to a black market for illegal HFCs, with some high-profile cases showing the extent of smuggling attempts. Retrofitting old equipment to run on legal refrigerants can be costly.

New weapons

Agencies are developing AI tools to identify smugglers beyond regular paperwork filings and improve targeting efficiency. Collaboration with other nations and NGOs also plays a crucial role in combating HFC smuggling, with an emphasis on visible enforcement at ports and border crossings.

Emphasis on proven strategies

The Biden administration formed an interagency task force to crack down on illegal HFC trade, aiming to enhance collaboration between agencies to improve targeting and detection of smugglers. However, critics call for increased pressure on China and better scrutiny of de minimis shipments.

Overall, the battle against HFC smuggling continues with a focus on improving detection capabilities and strengthening partnerships both domestically and internationally.