In a significant step towards mitigating the impacts of climate change, over 60 countries have pledged to slash cooling emissions at the ongoing COP28 climate conference in Dubai. This ambitious commitment comes as rising temperatures worldwide are driving increased demand for air conditioners and other cooling equipment, leading to a surge in greenhouse gas emissions.
The newly launched “Global Cooling Pledge” outlines a pathway to reduce cooling sector emissions by at least 68% by 2050 compared to 2022 levels. This ambitious goal aims to achieve universal access to life-saving cooling while simultaneously reducing the sector’s environmental footprint.
The pledge calls for a comprehensive approach to cooling emissions reduction, including measures to improve the energy efficiency of cooling appliances, promote sustainable cooling technologies, and adopt sustainable cooling practices in buildings and cities.
“The cooling sector must grow to protect everyone from rising temperatures,” said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). “But this growth must not come at the cost of the energy transition and more intense climate impacts.”
Organizers of the COP28 climate talks hope to persuade additional countries to join the “Global Cooling Pledge,” aiming to secure commitments from at least 80 nations.
