Statement from IIR Director General at COP29

Source : Reuters, “LIVE : Statements by heads of state and government at COP29”, YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/live/DMagwPgnjkc (18:48 - 21:48)

 

Transcript

 

Honourable Excellencies, Esteemed Delegates, 

 

The International Institute of Refrigeration is fully engaged in supporting the joined forces of the three COP Presidencies to leverage the climate ambitions and delivering concrete actions for the refrigeration and heat pump sectors, as our contribution to the Troika “roadmap to Mission 1.5”.

 

As we gather to address the urgent challenges of climate change, I am compelled to emphasise the critical role of refrigeration, heat pumps and cold chains in building a resilient, sustainable, and healthy society while protecting our climate. Today, refrigeration is no longer a mere convenience, it is a critical infrastructure, essential to food security, healthcare, and economic stability, just as heat pumps are necessary for decarbonizing the heating sector.

 

The United Nations Secretary General recently called on the world to act on extreme heat, underscoring the billions now at high risk from heatwaves, especially in vulnerable regions. As temperatures rise, the global demand for refrigeration will inevitably rise, driven further by population growth.

 

Currently, 12% of the world’s food production is lost due to inadequate cold chains. Food that if saved, could nourish over 950 million people who go hungry each day. Access to high quality, safe food, human comfort, and temperature-sensitive health products is a fundamental right that must be protected. Strengthening refrigeration and cold chain infrastructure is essential to addressing these challenges.

 

However, Refrigeration is energy-intensive, consuming approximately 20% of global electricity. Without decisive action, this demand is projected to double by 2050. In parallel, hundreds of millions of electrically driven heat pumps are needed to substitute fossil fuel heating. To keep the 1.5-degree scenario within reach, it is therefore necessary to underscore the urgency of accelerating deployment of renewable energy, energy-efficient technologies and clean low-GWP refrigerants.

 

As the world’s only intergovernmental, scientifically based organisation entirely focused on the refrigeration and heat pump sector, we are deeply committed to evidence-based policymaking as a crucial driver for achieving environmental and climate goals. We maintain impartiality and prioritise supporting the successful implementation of NDCs related to the refrigeration and heating sectors transition in every country. This includes mobilising funding, offering expert guidance, providing capacity-building programs, and recommending tailored refrigeration and heat pump technologies that meet the specific needs of each nation. Our goal is to ensure a healthy present while building a sustainable and secure future for generations to come.

 

Thank you.