This article by Dawn Ius was first published by Spud Smart magazine here. It can also be found on the NAPSO website here
Refrigerated storage [in North America] is about to undergo a critical transformation that could significantly impact potato growers and storage managers.
With new federal regulations targeting hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) — the chemicals powering most cooling systems — the industry must act now to stay ahead of rising costs and operational hurdles. So what does this mean in practical terms?
Join our upcoming webinar co-hosted by NAPSO and Spud Smart magazine to understand the upcoming changes and how to prepare.
Title: Cooling Compliance: Navigating the AIM Act in Ag Operations
Date: Nov. 14, 10 a.m. PST Register here: https://event.webinarjam.com/62k8n/register/znk35h50
Why You Can’t Afford to Miss This Webinar
Our featured speaker, Ben Ingalls of Industrial Ventilation Inc., will cover:
- What the new regulations mean for storage operators and potato growers
- How to prepare for impending capital investments and operational changes
- Precise timelines for compliance in Canada and the U.S.
- The global context and how international refrigerant policies influence North America
- Emerging refrigerant technologies and what about existing equipment to consider
The Regulatory Landscape Is Accelerating
Canada has taken a leading role, ratifying the Kigali Amendment in 2017 and implementing measures that have already reduced HFC consumption by approximately 25 per cent from 2019 to 2022. The industry’s target? A 40 per cent reduction by 2036. Meanwhile, the United States enacted the AIM Act in 2020, setting a firm deadline for change: starting January 1, 2026, refrigerants for existing cold storage warehouses can no longer be sold or used.
Ingalls underscores the urgency: “People have been thinking these deadlines are years away or might be delayed again, but that’s not the reality. As of January 1, 2026, you won’t be able to buy or use the old refrigerants for new storages anymore. It’s coming fast, and many in the industry aren’t prepared for that push.”
Why Now Is the Critical Time for Growers and Storage Operators
A dangerous misconception persists that these changes are distant or easily pushed back.
“A lot of people are going to be blindsided because the timelines are accelerating. Waiting until the last minute could be very costly, both in money and operations,” Ingalls says.
“Making strategic decisions in the spring — before harvest — can give you a huge advantage. It affects your costs, your ability to negotiate contracts, and your overall competitiveness. If you delay, you risk being caught unprepared when deadlines hit.”
Navigate the Future with Confidence
This isn’t just about compliance—it’s about understanding the bigger picture of climate change and technological innovation.
“Change is inevitable at this point,” Ingalls says. “But the key is how we navigate these shifts to keep the industry thriving.”
Register now and gain the insights you need to stay ahead.
Don’t miss your chance to learn from industry leaders about how to future-proof your storage systems and stay compliant in a rapidly changing landscape. Secure your spot today and be ready to meet tomorrow’s challenges head-on.
Cover image: Credit Spud Smart
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