Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD)
Announcement
July 18, 2025 – The U.S. EPA announced the sunset of the Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) Program.
After nearly twenty years of success, the program has fulfilled its mission of reducing emissions at appliance end-of-life. EPA extends its gratitude to all RAD Partners, affiliates, and recyclers for their dedication to responsible appliance disposal. Their contributions have led to substantial benefits for the environment. Since the program's inception in 2006, there has been significant progress in reducing emissions of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) used as refrigerants and contained in appliance insulation foam. As manufacturers of new equipment no longer use ODS and HFCs in appliances, the stock of legacy appliances collected and disposed of by RAD Partners has declined. Additionally, a decrease in recyclers has contributed to a decline in the number of Partners.
Moving forward, EPA will continue to provide information to the public on best practices to reduce emissions from appliance disposal, including from appliance insulation foam and hazardous materials. After September 30, 2025, these RAD webpages will no longer be available; for additional information and requirements related to safe disposal of stationary refrigerated appliances, please visit the EPA's Section 608 website.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) program is a voluntary partnership program that works with utilities, retailers, manufacturers, state and local government agencies, affiliates, and others to dispose of old refrigerated appliances using the best environmental practices available—going beyond federal requirements to protect Earth’s climate and ozone layer.
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About the RAD Program
Learn about the RAD program.
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RAD Partnership
Learn how to become a Partner, see who current Partners are, and celebrate Partnership accomplishments.
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RAD Program Benefits
Learn about the benefits of proper appliance disposal and what partners have accomplished so far.
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RAD Annual Reports and Reporting Form
Find the Annual Reporting form and read about RADs Annual Reports.
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News and Events
Learn about RADs upcoming and archived news and events.
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Consumer Resources
Find consumer resources related to the RAD program.