What environmental concern is associated with traditional refrigerants like CFCs?

Traditional refrigerants like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are primarily associated with ozone depletion. When CFCs are released into the atmosphere, they eventually rise up to the stratosphere, where they are broken down by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This process releases chlorine atoms, which then react with ozone (O3) molecules, leading to a reduction in the ozone layer. The ozone layer is vital because it protects living organisms on Earth from harmful UV radiation.

The other options, while they may relate to refrigerants in some contexts, do not directly address the primary environmental concern linked with CFCs. For instance, although some refrigerants possess high global warming potential, CFCs are specifically notorious for their role in ozone layer depletion. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the critical environmental impact that CFCs have had historically and continues to be a significant concern in discussions about refrigerant management and environmental protection.