Highlights from COP13/MOP36 and the World Cold Chain Symposium in Bangkok

The International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR) participated actively in two significant events in Bangkok, Thailand: the 13th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Vienna Convention (COP13), the 36th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol (MOP36), and the 2024 World Cold Chain Symposium (WCCS). These events, held from October 26 to November 1, 2024, showcased global efforts to advance sustainable refrigeration and cold chain solutions.

COP13/MOP36: Advancing Sustainable Refrigeration

Held from October 28 to November 1, the COP13/MOP36 meetings brought together global stakeholders to address pressing challenges in refrigeration and climate sustainability. Key negotiation topics included illegal trade control, management of HFC emissions, energy efficiency in refrigeration, and the transition to sustainable refrigerants.

The IIR hosted two critical side events:

• "Enhancing Energy Efficiency in the Refrigeration and Cooling Sectors"
  This event underscored the economic and environmental benefits of energy efficiency. Experts from Danfoss, UNDP, Ghana, and AREA debated the importance of policies, certifications, and funding to drive innovations. Discussions highlighted strategic partnerships as crucial for scaling energy-efficient projects.

• "Overcoming Barriers to Natural Refrigerant Adoption in Emerging and Developing Countries"
  Participants examined the technical, legislative, and financial aspects of adopting natural refrigerants. Speakers from Senegal, Indonesia, India, and the IIR discussed global examples, emphasizing collaborative strategies to overcome regulatory and technological hurdles.

During the plenary session, IIR Director General Yosr Allouche reiterated IIR’s commitment to evidence-based policymaking and enhancing technology transfer to support a sustainable transition globally.

World Cold Chain Symposium: Sustainable Cold Chain Innovations

The WCCS, organized by the Global Food Cold Chain Council (GFCCC) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), was held on October 26. It focused on fostering a sustainable cold chain ecosystem and featured global experts addressing four key themes:

1. Impact and Benefits of the Cold Chain
2. Technological Innovations in Cold Chains
3. Capacity Building and Training Challenges
4. Momentum in Financing Cold Chain Opportunities

IIR’s Marco Duran presented insights from the ENOUGH Project, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the European food supply chain by 2050. Covering data and scenarios for ten major EU countries, the project seeks to establish baselines and future forecasts for emissions reductions.

Other speakers discussed emerging technologies, innovative business models, and financing mechanisms, including off-grid solutions in India and training initiatives in Africa.

Looking Forward

Both COP13/MOP36 and the WCCS highlighted the global drive toward sustainable refrigeration and cold chain development. With its leadership in policy advocacy, innovation, and international collaboration, the IIR continues to play a vital role in addressing climate challenges and shaping the future of sustainable refrigeration systems.