As per the EPA’s RAD program, the participating members are required to recover ozone-depleting chemicals from old refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, and other appliances using methods that ensure refrigerants and other parts are either reclaimed, recycled or disposed of properly.
RAD partners include retailers, municipalities, utilities, manufacturers and universities. West Virginia’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), which is the RAD program’s first state affiliate, will propagate the program to participating retailers and others throughout the state.
The program is in line with the state’s Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Program which offers mail-in rebates to West Virginia consumers who replace older, inefficient appliances with Energy Star-qualified appliances.
Shawn Garvin, regional administrator of EPA mid-Atlantic region, said: “West Virginia is helping consumers make environmentally-responsible choices when it comes to replacing old appliances. Both programs will lead to lasting benefits by reducing harmful air pollutants and saving consumers money on their energy bills.”
