GIZ Proklima and technical partner Thermo King Global Marine displayed an R290 refrigerated container prototype at Hamburg’s Rathausmarkt during Hamburg Sustainability Week. The system is intended to support more sustainable refrigerated transport.
The prototype replaces conventional fluorinated refrigerants with the natural refrigerant R290, or propane. According to the project, this approach reduces environmental impact by preventing greenhouse gas emissions and avoiding PFAS-containing refrigerants.
Initial testing indicated energy savings of around 15% compared with conventional reefer systems. The project is moving from the concept stage toward real-world application in cold-chain logistics.
During the Hamburg Sustainability Conference, the Greener Reefers Transition Alliance presented its progress at a side event and networking breakfast. Participants also discussed upcoming events and options for closer collaboration as the alliance works to bring the prototype into maritime transport.
