Global Efforts to Reduce Cooling Emissions Gain Momentum at COP28

John Kerry, U.S. Special Envoy for Climate, has committed to reducing emissions from cooling-related products, such as air conditioning units and refrigerators, as part of the fight against climate change. At the COP28 climate change summit, the U.S. joined over 60 other nations in the Global Cooling Pledge, which aims to reduce cooling-related emissions by at least 68% by 2050 compared to 2022 levels. Emissions from cooling equipment currently account for about 7% of global greenhouse gas emissions and are expected to triple by 2050. Kerry argues that as temperatures rise, air-conditioner usage will increase, leading to higher emissions. The pledge also includes targets for establishing energy performance standards by 2030.