Ice skaters in Scotland face the loss of many of their venues because of increased costs arising from new EU rules aimed at protecting the ozone layer.

Economics have already forced the closure of some of the country's biggest rinks, and the industry faces further depletion before the Commonwealth Games come to Glasgow in 2014.

Many will have to replace their plant to phase out the use of the refrigerant R22, whose manufacture leads to a high level of ozone depletion.

Glasgow itself has no rink, although it has the modern and popular Braehead rink on its doorstep. A survey published by BBC Scotland yesterday indicated that the majority of Scotland's 27 or so rinks are struggling to survive.

Rinks in Aberdeen, Paisley and Prestwick have already closed. Aberdeen's is due to reopen in 18 months' time but enthusiasts fear it could fall prey to a recent cash crisis at Aberdeen City Council. There is also anxiety that the rink at Irvine's Magnum Centre will not be replaced when the rest of the centre is re-located.

David Carey, manager of the rink at the Galleon Centre in Kilmarnock, and chairman of the Scottish Ice Rinks Association, said rinks were already suffering a 66% increase in electricity bills, and higher water costs, over the last two years. The cost of phasing out R22 could push many of them over the edge.

"More than 90% of them are using R22, and will have to replace their plant - other than a few of the more modern ones whose plant can be adapted. It would cost us £500,000 to replace ours and, like many ice rinks, ours doesn't make money - it is run by a trust on behalf of the local council, and our trust board are looking at this."

Production of R22 is scheduled to end by the end of next year. It can be recycled with the addition of chemicals, but rinks still using it will be dependent on a steadily dwindling global supply.

On a per capita basis Scotland is not badly served by rinks, but the relatively scattered population means that many have struggled to survive and have been getting by with old equipment.

Archie Marshall, of Skate Scotland, which represents the country's figure and speed skaters, said the country was in danger of falling further behind the rest of the UK and Europe.