Brussels, 25 April 2019 – The Consumer Goods Forum (CGF) and shecco launched on Monday, 22 April a booklet exploring the environmental impact of refrigerant systems, as well as the main challenges in implementing HFC-free cooling.

The booklet – called “Understanding the most cost-effective way to fight climate change” – also highlights the benefits of using natural refrigerant-based technologies and features case studies from companies who have already made the switch to natural refrigerants. The full report is available to CGF members; an abbreviated version can be accessed here.

CGF is a Paris-based global industry network consisting of CEOs and senior management of some 400 retailers, manufacturers, service providers, and other stakeholders across 70 countries. shecco, publisher of this website, uses media, conferences and market development to accelerate the adoption of natural refrigerant-based technologies worldwide.

The booklet includes testimonies provided by industry end users who have successfully implemented energy-efficient, HFC-free technology. Success stories include those from a number of CGF members: Campbell Soup, Carrefour, Heineken, Lawson, METRO AG, Recheio (Jeronimo Martins) and Woolworths.

“Our members continue to be at the forefront of change. This is what makes the CGF unique. We bring together consumer goods retailers, manufacturers and their stakeholders globally to address these key topics. And, more importantly, it’s their commitment to act on the information available and lead from the front. Thanks to the actions of these leading retailers and manufacturers, we now have a much better understanding of the HFC-challenge and how we can drive positive change and phase out these harmful, chemical refrigerants,” said Ignacio Gavilán, CGF’s environmental sustainability director.

In 2010, CGF’s members made a commitment to tackle the growing impact of refrigeration systems; in 2016 CGF’s Board announced a second Refrigeration Resolution to continue the phase out of HFCs and call for the inclusion of HFCs in the Montreal Protocol, which led to the creation of the Kigali Amendment.

“The transition towards long-term future-proof natural refrigerant-based technologies is often not without challenges, said Marc Chasserot, CEO, shecco. “Nevertheless, learning from the experience of others can be an effective way to overcome the barriers as well as avoid unnecessary intermediary steps.”

About shecco

For the last 17 years, market accelerator shecco has been active in helping bring climate-friendly technologies faster to market. shecco supports over 100 partners worldwide in the HVAC&R sector, where the focus is on sustainable refrigeration, heating & cooling technologies using natural refrigerants. shecco offers a variety of services in three areas: 1) media, including online industry platforms, magazines and a catalog of dedicated research reports; 2) market development, including market research, consultancy and public affairs services, as well as special international projects; and 3) events, including international conferences and national workshops.

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