The high-level roundtable on “Delivering on the Global Cooling Pledge” convened world leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss urgent measures needed to address the growing impacts of extreme heat. As greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, global temperatures intensify, leading to severe health, economic, and social consequences, particularly for vulnerable communities in urban areas.
The Challenge of Extreme Heat
Extreme heat events, exacerbated by climate change, pose significant risks to human health and economic stability. Current emissions trajectories suggest a global temperature rise of 2.6–2.8°C this century, far exceeding the 1.5°C target outlined in the Paris Agreement. Immediate action is needed to enhance climate resilience and protect those most at risk.
Vulnerable populations, particularly in urban areas with insufficient green spaces, are disproportionately affected by rising temperatures. Access to sustainable cooling solutions is crucial to safeguarding human health, reducing inequality, and ensuring economic continuity.
The Global Cooling Pledge: A Framework for Action
The Global Cooling Pledge, developed under UNEP’s guidance, focuses on implementing sustainable cooling solutions while reducing emissions. Three core measures were emphasized at the roundtable:
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Passive Cooling and Nature-Based Solutions
- Promoting green and blue spaces in urban areas to lower city temperatures naturally.
- Implementing better urban design strategies to reduce heat absorption and enhance ventilation.
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Energy Efficiency and Refrigerant Management
- Strengthening energy efficiency standards for cooling equipment.
- Accelerating the phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the Kigali Amendment.
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Expanding Cooling Access Without Increasing Emissions
- Enhancing cold chains for food and vaccine storage to reduce waste and improve health outcomes.
- Encouraging adoption of low-global warming potential technologies in cooling systems.
Progress and Challenges
The 2024 Annual Pledge Progress Report highlights advancements, including the adoption of energy labelling schemes and Minimum Energy Performance Standards by many signatories. However, only seven countries have enacted building energy codes supporting passive cooling, and significant gaps remain in financing and policy alignment.
To address these challenges, participants identified three critical actions:
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Incorporating Cooling in Updated NDCs
- Encouraging countries to integrate cooling strategies into their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to mitigate emissions and enhance resilience to extreme heat.
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Adopting Comprehensive National Cooling Action Plans (NCAPs)
- Aligning policies on passive cooling, energy efficiency, and refrigerant management through NCAPs and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs).
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Scaling Up Financing for Sustainable Cooling
- Mobilizing $400–800 billion annually to close access gaps in developing countries.
- Exploring innovative finance mechanisms such as cooling-as-a-service, on-bill financing, and risk-sharing facilities.
The Path Forward
The roundtable underscored the urgency of expanding sustainable cooling access while minimizing emissions. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to the Global Cooling Pledge and outlined strategies for accelerating progress through collaboration, innovation, and increased financial support.
Sustainable cooling is essential for achieving global climate goals, protecting vulnerable communities, and fostering economic growth. As global temperatures continue to rise, the implementation of sustainable cooling solutions remains a critical priority for governments, businesses, and international organizations.
Speech delivered by: Inger Andersen
For: High-level Roundtable “Delivering on the Global Cooling Pledge”
Location: Baku, Azerbaijan
