What is the consequence of using refrigerants with high global warming potential?

Using refrigerants with high global warming potential (GWP) has significant implications for the environment. These refrigerants can trap heat in the atmosphere much more effectively than carbon dioxide, which is why their impact on climate change is profound. When released, these substances contribute to the greenhouse effect, leading to changes in weather patterns, rising sea levels, and other climate-related issues that affect ecosystems and human life.

In contrast, options suggesting improvements to energy efficiency, enhanced cooling effectiveness, or increased system longevity do not reflect the environmental consequences associated with high-GWP refrigerants. While those may be desired characteristics in a refrigerant or cooling system, they do not pertain to the specific negative outcomes tied to the use of high-GWP substances in terms of their contribution to climate change. Thus, the correct response appropriately identifies the main consequence of using refrigerants with high GWP as their role in exacerbating climate change.