How do HFCs differ from CFCs in terms of their environmental impact?

HFCs, or hydrofluorocarbons, differ from CFCs, or chlorofluorocarbons, primarily in their impact on the ozone layer. HFCs do not contain chlorine, which is the chemical element responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer associated with CFCs. While CFCs have been known to cause significant damage to the ozone layer by breaking down ozone molecules, HFCs were introduced as a more environmentally friendly alternative because they do not have the same harmful effects.

This distinction is crucial in understanding the environmental policies aimed at phasing out substances that harm the ozone layer. The introduction of HFCs was part of the solution to the problem posed by CFCs. However, it's important to note that while HFCs do not contribute to ozone depletion, they can still have a global warming potential, which is a separate environmental concern. Therefore, one of the key advantages of HFCs over CFCs is their lack of impact on ozone layer depletion, making them a preferable choice from an ozone protection perspective.