glossary
Welcome to our glossary of useful terms and expressions related to sustainability in the m&e sector.
You can search for definitions and explanations using our alphabetical links below or simply by scrolling through.
We hope you find these helpful and you will see as you navigate other pages on the site that each time a glossary term occurs there is a live link to its definition here.
Please contact the site editor Ewen Rose if there are other subjects you think we should include.
- F-Gas Regulations
- Regulations which come into force on 4 July 2007 and concern the use of fluorinated gases such as the HFC-based refrigerants. Operators of relevant systems will have a range of obligations including prompt leakage repair, leakage checking and record keeping and ensuring appropriately qualified personnel are used.
- F-Gases
- Gases containing fluorine used as refrigerants in air conditioning and subject to strict containment rules under the terms of the EU F-Gas Regulation from June 2007 (see F-Gas Regulation).
- Fossil fuel
- Any fuel that is derived from sediments of organic matter formed underground as part of geological processes. Common fossil fuels are coal, natural gas and petroleum.
- Fuel cells
- An electrochemical device (similar to a battery) that combines hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity, heat and water. The source of hydrogen can be either pure hydrogen or a number of other fuels. Much of the development work is being carried out by the major motor manufacturers with future spin-off applications for use in buildings.
- Fuel poverty
- A household is defined to be fuel poor if more than 10% of its income needs to be spent to achieve a satisfactory indoor heating regime, after including other energy services such as cooking and lighting.