ShareIIR Informatory Note highlights global air conditioning's CO2 emissions and energy impact
The IIR has modelled current and future CO2 emissions attributable to air conditioning in different regions of the world.
Air conditioning is essential for the economic development of hot, humid regions. It is made increasingly necessary by frequent heat waves caused by global warming.
In its latest Informatory Note “CO2 emissions from air conditioning”, the IIR aimed to quantify CO2 emissions attributable to AC in several regions of the world, to provide input for the implementation of related policies.
Results from this model showed that air conditioning accounts for more than 12% of electricity consumption and 5% of energy-related CO2 emissions worldwide. These emissions are made up of 77% indirect emissions linked to the electricity consumption of air-conditioning equipment and 23% direct emissions attributable to refrigerant leaks during the operation and disposal of this equipment.
The IIR considers that achieving a substantial one-third reduction in global air-conditioning emissions by 2050 requires a proactive approach, including significant advances in energy efficiency policies worldwide, alongside intensified measures to mitigate the impact of refrigerant leaks.
This Informatory Note was prepared by Jean-Luc Dupont (former Director of the IIR’s Scientific and Technical Information Department) and Léo Oudart (trainee engineer).
This Informatory Note can be downloaded from FRIDOC (free for IIR members). A summary for policymakers outlining the main conclusions and IIR recommendations is available in open access.