In April 2025, the NDC4 webinar series hosted three expert-led sessions focused on advancing sustainable cooling solutions and supporting the implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) in the refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) sector. Each webinar addressed a critical area of climate action: climate-friendly refrigerants, emissions tracking, and baseline reporting.
Focus on R290 as a Low-GWP Alternative
The first session, held on 3 April, examined the use of propane (R290) as a sustainable alternative to conventional split-type air conditioning systems. Participants received an overview of the updated R290 Resource Guide, which includes practical case studies and best practices for adopting R290 in RACHP equipment. The session addressed safety concerns, regulatory considerations, and the refrigerant’s potential to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while improving energy efficiency.
MRV Systems for Transparent Mitigation
On 10 April, the second session introduced strategies for incorporating Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) systems into national climate frameworks. A minimodule on MRV in the cooling sector provided guidance on establishing emission baselines and identifying performance indicators for Green Cooling technologies. These systems are seen as key tools for ensuring accountability and effectiveness in climate mitigation measures related to the RAC sector.
HFC Baseline Tool for Climate Reporting
The final session on 24 April presented the new HFC Emission Baseline Tool, developed to help countries quantify and report HFC-related emissions reductions. Using national consumption data, the tool allows for the creation of verifiable baselines for inclusion in NDC reporting under the Paris Agreement. The session also referenced the NDC Cooling Guide, which offers practical advice on integrating HFC phase-down data into national submissions.
“These webinars show how practical tools—whether for refrigerant transitions, MRV integration, or emissions tracking—can directly support countries in aligning their cooling strategies with climate goals,” said a representative of the NDC4 initiative.
Each session underscored the importance of technical guidance, inter-agency cooperation, and capacity-building in enabling a transition to sustainable cooling within the framework of global climate commitments.
