June 26th marks World Refrigeration Day, a global day recognizing the refrigeration, air-conditioning, and heat pump sector. As we await a new refrigerated vaccine, live in a warmer world, and depend on cold chains to keep our food fresh and safe to eat, the importance of this sector cannot be overstated. Cooling is essential and it is vital to ensure that cooling systems are sustainable. Together we can work towards a world of energy efficient and climate-friendly cooling for all without the warming.
Here are five resources to help:
1. Check out the Climate-Friendly Supermarket Scorecard
See how your supermarket measures up on our Supermarket Scorecard where we assess top-grossing U.S. grocery retailers, that represent over 70 brands, on their actions to reduce emissions of super pollutant hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).
2. Purchase an HFC-free Fridge
In the US, super pollutant refrigerants are still widely used in household refrigerators despite the availability of HFC-free alternatives that are thousands of times better for the climate. Use our Buyer’s Guide to find a list of available HFC-free refrigerator models.
3. Find a Climate-friendly Supermarket Near You
Explore our interactive map to find a climate-friendly supermarket near you. Search by zip code or address to find a grocer in your neighborhood using HFC-free technologies. Learn more about the technologies stores are using by clicking on a store and visiting our technology page.
4. Thank a Climate-friendly Supermarket
Join us and Green America by sending a letter of thanks to the HFC-free supermarkets and their workers in your area. Use our interactive map to find a store and say thanks! Don’t see a climate-friendly supermarket near you? Click here to ask for an HFC-free store in your area!
5. Learn More about HFCs
Learn more about refrigerants and the climate opportunity they present by reading our report Search, Reuse, and Destroy. This report discusses how we can prevent HFC emissions both during and at the end of life of cooling equipment. If you have an old refrigerator or air conditioning unit that you are trying to dispose of, check out Green America’s disposal blog to learn more about proper appliance disposal.