Strengthening Cooperation between the Chinese Association of Refrigeration and the IIR: Training Lecture by Prof. Xianting Li

During the 2025 Academic Conference of the Chinese Association of Refrigeration (CAR), Prof. Xianting Li, Vice President of the Science and Technology Council and President of Section E of the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR), was invited to deliver a dedicated training lecture for conference participants with an interest in the work and activities of the IIR. 

 

In his lecture, Prof. Li provided a comprehensive introduction to the International Institute of Refrigeration, tracing its historical development and outlining its mission as a leading intergovernmental organisation dedicated to the advancement of refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump technologies. He presented the IIR’s organizational structure, including its scientific councils, commissions, and sections, and explained how these bodies contribute to international scientific cooperation and policy-relevant knowledge exchange. 

 

Prof. Li also highlighted the wide range of IIR activities and outputs, including its flagship publications, international conferences and events, collaborative research projects, technical services, and expert networks. Particular attention was given to the IIR’s latest strategic priorities, emphasising innovation, sustainability, energy efficiency, and the role of refrigeration technologies in addressing global challenges such as climate change, food security, and public health. 

 

 

Towards the conclusion of his presentation, Prof. Li offered practical guidance to researchers, engineers, and institutions interested in engaging more actively with the IIR. He outlined various pathways for involvement, including participation in scientific commissions, contribution to publications and working groups, and engagement in international events and joint projects. 

 

The lecture was warmly received by participants and significantly enhanced Chinese scholars’ understanding of the IIR’s mandate, activities, and strategic direction. It also helped to strengthen mutual awareness and trust, laying a solid foundation for deeper cooperation between the Chinese Association of Refrigeration and the International Institute of Refrigeration. The session marked an important step toward advancing future collaboration in scientific research, capacity building, and international exchange within the refrigeration and related fields.