New leadership appointed for ABRAVA refrigeration department

The National Department of Commercial and Industrial Refrigeration of ABRAVA – the Brazilian Association of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Heating – has announced its new leadership for the 2025–2026 term. Mauro Gomes has been appointed president, with Luiz Villaça as vice-president and Lucas Fujita as secretary.

The department's new leadership reaffirmed its focus on sustainability, technological innovation, and professional training, aiming to address key strategic challenges within the sector. “Our focus is to continue promoting the technical and sustainable evolution of commercial and industrial refrigeration in Brazil, always aligned with decarbonization goals and practical market needs,” said Mauro Gomes.

Aligned with ABRAVA’s goals, the department aims to contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by promoting energy efficiency and cleaner technologies. Upcoming activities will prioritize global climate topics such as net zero targets, decarbonization, and the Kigali Amendment, which calls for the gradual reduction in the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).

The department highlighted the strategic role of the refrigeration sector in the low-carbon transition, given its impact across the cold chain and its relevance to preserving food, medicines, and essential supplies.

A recent initiative by the department was the launch of the guide “The relationship between refrigeration and energy efficiency”, targeting small and medium-sized businesses such as supermarkets, bakeries, butcher shops, and restaurants. The publication offers practical guidance on the efficient use of refrigeration systems, combining economic viability with environmental sustainability.

The new leadership intends to expand initiatives like this by supporting technical training and skill development, especially for professionals involved in the operation and maintenance of refrigeration systems.

The department plans to maintain open dialogue with the market and strengthen its technical role with regulators, academic institutions, and industry organizations. “Our work is collective and must evolve continuously. We want to be a strategic link between innovation, regulation, and market practice,” said Luiz Villaça.

The board also committed to further collaboration with other ABRAVA departments to support the HVACR sector as a driver of sustainable development in Brazil.