On March 7, 2025, the UNEP Cool Coalition, in collaboration with the Indian Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ISHRAE) and Women in District Cooling – India Chapter, hosted a webinar titled Women in District Cooling: Driving Inclusive and Resilient Solutions for India. The discussion focused on the role of women in district cooling and the importance of diversity in shaping sustainable and climate-resilient urban cooling solutions.
As India faces rising temperatures and increasing cooling demands, district cooling is being recognized as a key solution for energy efficiency and urban resilience. However, the sector continues to see low participation from women. The webinar explored ways to bridge this gap through targeted initiatives, training programs, and policy interventions.
The panel featured experts from government, industry, the United Nations, and academia, who shared insights into the challenges and opportunities for women in the cooling sector. Discussions emphasized the importance of technical training, mentorship, and inclusive policies to ensure greater participation of women in sustainable cooling solutions.
A key initiative supporting this transition is the District Cooling Hub, led by UNEP Cool Coalition, GIZ, and the Bureau of Energy Efficiency. This program aims to expand the adoption of district cooling in India while promoting gender diversity by providing upskilling opportunities and career pathways for women.
By fostering an inclusive workforce, the cooling sector can drive innovation, improve decision-making, and contribute to a more sustainable future. The webinar reinforced the need for continued collaboration between industry stakeholders, policymakers, and organizations to create a more gender-equitable and resilient cooling industry.