Sustainable Cooling Impact: Scaling Solutions in a Warmer World
Online event
About this Event
As global temperatures rise, the need for access to sustainable cooling solutions has never been more urgent. Over 1.2 billion people still lack adequate access to cooling, putting their health, nutrition, and livelihoods at risk. Among them, one-third live in underserved rural communities without access to electricity.
Access to sustainable cooling solutions powered by renewable energy is essential for human life and development—not a luxury. It protects people from rising temperatures, keeps food fresh and vaccines stable, and ensures economies remain productive. However, most global attention and investment have focused on urban, grid-connected areas, with gaps in meeting the needs of vulnerable populations. Without a shift to sustainable refrigerants and fuels, emissions from the cooling sector are projected to more than double by 2050, undermining both adaptation and mitigation efforts. Meanwhile, demand for cooling is expected to rise exponentially, with developing economies forecast to see market growth from around USD 300 billion to at least USD 600 billion annually by 2050.
This spotlight session will explore the pivotal role of sustainable cooling in advancing global health, food security, and livelihoods—and why it must be elevated as a priority ahead of COP30. It will spotlight innovators working at the forefront of clean energy access, and the UK’s leadership through the Ayrton Fund, a £1 billion commitment to clean energy R&D in developing countries, including the Ayrton Sustainable Cooling for All Challenge. The session will also align closely with Efficiency for Access’ upcoming campaign ‘Sustainable Cooling Impact: Improving Lives and Livelihoods’, which aims to highlight innovative companies advancing access to sustainable cooling and the collaborative programmes supporting them.
This session contributes to global efforts to advance a just and inclusive clean energy transition.
Outline agenda:
• Opening remarks (5 min)
• Panel discussion featuring innovators in sustainable cooling (30 min)
• Audience Q&A (15 min)
Headline speakers (TBC):
• Two – three sustainable cooling companies including companies supported by the Efficiency for Access Research and Development Fund and the Ayrton Fund
Intended attendees:
• Policymakers and government representatives
• Climate and energy access practitioners
• Investors and donors
• Innovators and entrepreneurs
• NGOs
Objectives and outcomes:
• Raise global awareness of access to sustainable cooling as a development and climate priority
• Showcase UK leadership and the impact of the Ayrton Fund
• Highlight innovators in sustainable cooling and the barriers and opportunities to scaling their operations
Please contact sarah.hambly@est.org.uk if you would like to attend this event.
Energy Saving Trust
Energy Saving Trust is an independent organisation dedicated to promoting energy efficiency, low carbon transport and sustainable energy use. We aim to address the climate emergency and deliver the wider benefits of clean energy as the UK transitions to net zero.
We empower householders to make better choices, deliver transformative programmes for governments and support businesses with strategy, research and assurance – enabling everyone to play their part in building a sustainable future. Energy Saving Trust is co-Secretariat of Efficiency for Access, a global coalition dedicated to advancing access to energy and affordable, energy efficient appliances in underserved communities.
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