The North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council (NASRC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with ASHRAE to support the adoption of natural refrigerants. The three-year collaboration will focus on research, knowledge sharing, workforce development and advanced education.
According to NASRC, the agreement is intended to strengthen the connection between technical standards, industry experience and workforce needs. The organizations said they plan to advance field-informed solutions that improve system performance, strengthen technical guidance and support wider use of sustainable refrigerant technologies.
The partnership combines ASHRAE’s work in research, standards, publishing and continuing education with NASRC’s industry network, which spans more than 55,000 food retail locations. Workforce development is a central part of the agreement, with the organizations set to explore online training modules, certification programs, seminars and workshops.
The training efforts are aimed at expanding access to hands-on learning and strengthening career pathways for refrigeration professionals working with natural refrigerant systems.
“This partnership strengthens the connection between technical standards, real-world industry experience and workforce needs,” said Danielle Wright, executive director of NASRC. “By aligning research, education and outreach, NASRC and ASHRAE can provide the resources stakeholders need to navigate the transition to sustainable refrigerants confidently.”
