At the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai, the United States, Canada, and Kenya joined 63 countries in pledging a significant reduction in emissions linked to cooling. This collective focus represents the first global effort to address greenhouse gas emissions stemming from cooling, including food and medicine refrigeration and air conditioning.
The commitment involves reducing cooling-related emissions by at least 68% by 2050 compared to 2022 levels. It also includes a range of other targets, such as establishing minimum energy performance standards by 2030. U.S. Climate Envoy John Kerry emphasized at COP28 the need to chart a path for reducing cooling-related emissions across all sectors while increasing access to sustainable cooling.
Approximately 1.2 billion people still require access to cooling. The installed capacity for cooling is expected to triple by mid-century, driven by rising temperatures, population growth, and increased income levels.
Moreover, at least 118 countries support another COP28 pledge to triple renewable energy and double energy efficiency rates by 2030.
Progress in achieving the cooling pledge goals will be tracked annually until 2030, with updates at the UN’s annual climate summits.
