Five Ways Sustainable Cooling Supports Clean Energy Goals

1. Cold Chain Innovation in India

The India Cold Chain Programme (ICCP), led by the UNEP Cool Coalition and the Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy, is advancing rural cold chain infrastructure in Bihar and Haryana. Integrated packhouses powered by solar, biomass, and hybrid renewable energy solutions reduce food loss, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and support rural livelihoods. By 2025, the ICCP and the Bureau of Energy Efficiency will release National Design Guidelines for Energy-Efficient Packhouse Infrastructure to promote sustainable cold chains across India.

2. Passive Cooling Strategies in Cambodia

A collaboration between the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific and the UNEP Cool Coalition, the “Passive Cooling Strategies for Sustainable Development in Cambodia” project demonstrates natural cooling methods. With cooling accounting for 45% of Cambodia’s electricity use, passive strategies such as improved building design and materials reduce energy consumption and emissions. The initiative provides architects, engineers, and students with the necessary tools and knowledge while supporting national policies like Cambodia’s Cooling Action Plan.

3. District Cooling for Urban Energy Efficiency

In India, the UNEP Cool Coalition has helped establish a District Cooling Hub, connecting experts with municipalities to develop centralized cooling systems. District cooling reduces energy consumption, cuts greenhouse gas emissions, and promotes clean energy integration by cooling entire neighborhoods instead of individual buildings. The Hub facilitates technology transfer, policy development, and capacity building for sustainable urban cooling solutions.

4. Renewable Energy-Powered Cooling in Africa

The Africa Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Cooling and Cold-Chains, supported by the Global Cooling Pledge, is promoting solar, wind, and hybrid-powered cooling solutions. These systems enhance agricultural productivity and healthcare by reducing food waste and preserving medicines in off-grid regions. By integrating renewable energy into cooling infrastructure, the initiative supports clean energy adoption in underserved areas.

5. Ensuring Cooling Access for Vulnerable Communities

The UNEP Cool Coalition is working to make sustainable cooling solutions accessible to underserved populations. By promoting energy-efficient technologies and low-global-warming refrigerants, the initiative helps communities adapt to extreme heat, safeguard food supplies, and ensure access to essential medicines. These solutions contribute to climate resilience and clean energy transitions worldwide.

Sustainable cooling plays a critical role in global clean energy efforts. Through renewable-powered cold chains, passive building strategies, and district cooling systems, these initiatives are paving the way for a more energy-efficient and climate-resilient future.

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