While the human health hazards of ammonia leaks are fairly well known, the environmental impact of ammonia is also concerning. For instance, when ammonia dissolves in water, it forms ammonium hydroxide, which endangers aquatic life even in low concentrations.

The Environmental Defense Fund states that an ammonia spill can be more detrimental to fish than an oil spill, causing reductions in ammonia-sensitive species, physiological effects, and even mass mortality.

Fortunately, facilities have many alternatives to ammonia for their cooling needs. One set of solutions is advanced climate technologies, which include low-GWP HFCs, HFOs, and blends. 

These solutions are low flammability, low toxicity alternatives to ammonia that are safer for technicians, occupants, and the environment. They reduce climate impact while maintaining efficiency, affordability, and flexibility across applications and climates.

For more, read globalFACT’s latest article, Chilling facts about ammonia-based cooling, available now in Facilities Dive.