IMechE supports COP 28 Global Cooling Pledge

The Institution of Mechanical Engineers has supported the Global Cooling Pledge which was announced at COP28 in Dubai and aims for deep cuts in cooling-related emissions.

Sixty three countries, including the UK, US and Kenya, joined the pledge which marks the world's first collective focus on emissions from cooling, which includes refrigeration for food and medicine and air conditioning.

IMechE CEO Alice Bunn signed a letter supporting the pledge on behalf of the Institution. Alice Bunn said:

“We are pleased to endorse the Global Cooling Pledge announced at COP28 in Dubai, acknowledging the growing significance of cooling infrastructure worldwide amidst the global challenge of rising temperatures.”

The pledge commits countries to reduce by 2050 their cooling-related emissions by at least 68% compared to 2022 levels, along with a suite of other targets including establishing minimum energy performance standards by 2030.

Cooling provision is rapidly emerging as a key element of national critical infrastructure, both domestically in the UK and globally.

Ideally, to reduce environmental impacts and pressures on transitioning energy systems the increasing reliance on active mechanical cooling should be minimised through the incorporation of passive cooling techniques, innovative approaches, and behavioural adjustments.

Nevertheless, it is necessary to acknowledge the growing need for cooling. Consequently, concerted efforts should be directed towards minimising the environmental footprint of cooling systems and investing in sustainable cooling technologies.

Earlier this year we issued our report "Adapting Industry to Withstand Rising Temperatures and Future Heatwaves" which discusses the growing need for sustainable cooling.