What is required for a refrigerant to be classified as non-ozone-depleting?

A refrigerant is classified as non-ozone-depleting based on its ozone depletion potential (ODP), which measures how much a substance can damage the ozone layer compared to other substances. To be considered non-ozone-depleting, a refrigerant must have an ozone depletion potential of zero, meaning it does not contribute to the depletion of the ozone layer at all. This is crucial in the context of environmental protection, as the ozone layer serves as a shield against harmful ultraviolet radiation.

While factors like global warming potential, flammability, and physical characteristics such as color and odor may be relevant for various applications or safety considerations, they do not directly impact a refrigerant's classification regarding its effect on the ozone layer. Thus, the specific criterion for a refrigerant to be labeled non-ozone-depleting is the absence of any ozone depletion potential, underscoring the importance of ODP in environmental assessments and regulatory standards.