Statement given by Didier Coulomb, Director General of the IIR, during MOP 28

Madam, Mr President, Dear Delegates,

 

The phase-down of HFCs use worldwide is a necessity that no one ever questions today. Whether there is an agreement or not tonight, the movement is underway. An agreement would definitely accelerate this change; make it better organised - and thus beneficial to all and not only to a few, better prepared countries - and cheaper for countries as well as companies, in both developing countries and developed countries. An agreement is therefore highly advisable.

 

I would also like to stress that this action should be coordinated as closely as possible with all other actions relating to energy, at both international and local levels.

 

Refrigeration, including air conditioning, represents 17% of electricity worldwide. It is present everywhere in buildings, vehicles and factories. All actions relating to energy, that your countries will implement following the Paris Agreement, will include a component on refrigeration. These actions should therefore be well coordinated, whether in terms of economic incentives or regulation.

 

The safety regulations should also evolve to facilitate, in a responsible way, the use of low greenhouse gas emission technologies.

 

Refrigeration is essential to human life and its use will continue to grow significantly in the coming years, especially in developing countries. But it has to be a sustainable development.

 

The International Institute of Refrigeration is an intergovernmental organisation fully committed to this objective.

 

We are at your disposal for any assistance. So please join us.

Thank you!