UN Projects Global Cooling Demand to More Than Triple by 2050
The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) released a report on the 11th, projecting that global cooling demand will reach more than three times current levels by 2050, a trend that will further exacerbate global warming and strain power grids. In response, UNEP is calling for more sustainable cooling solutions, such as improved building design and better ventilation.
The report states that despite countries' efforts to implement measures like enhancing energy efficiency, phasing out climate-warming refrigerants, and improving grid operations, greenhouse gas emissions related to cooling are expected to increase significantly. They are projected to reach 7.2 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent by 2050, nearly double the 2022 level. Consequently, "we must reimagine cooling – not as a source of emissions, but as a cornerstone of heat resilience and sustainable development."
UNEP recommends adopting a "sustainable cooling pathway," focusing on passive cooling technologies, low-energy solutions, and hybrid approaches combining fans and air conditioning. Estimates suggest that widespread adoption of these methods could reduce projected cooling-related GHG emissions by 64% by 2050, protect up to 3 billion people from intensifying heat, save $17 trillion in energy costs, and avoid up to $26 trillion in grid investment costs. If the global power sector decarbonizes rapidly, cooling-related emissions could drop even further.
According to AFP, UNEP particularly advocates for passive cooling solutions, such as optimizing wall and roof design, implementing shading, and improving ventilation. These strategies can help lower indoor temperatures by 0.5 to 8 degrees Celsius.
"As deadly heatwaves become more frequent and extreme, cooling must be considered essential infrastructure, on par with water, energy, and sanitation," said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP. "But we cannot beat the heat with air conditioning alone, which exacerbates greenhouse gas emissions and costs. Passive, energy-efficient, and nature-based solutions can meet growing cooling needs while protecting people, food chains, and economies from extreme heat in pursuit of our global climate goals. We have no excuse: the time to beat the heat is now."
