CIBSE and ASHRAE pledge joint commitment to action on climate change

CIBSE and ASHRAE (the American Society of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers) have jointly called for continued reductions in carbon-dioxide emissions, guidelines relating to reduced energy consumption and responsible refrigerant use. The statement was signed at the ASHRAE 2006 Winter Meeting in Chicago recently. Donald Leeper, president of CIBSE, says, ‘This joint statement makes very clear how our two bodies are determined to use the combined expertise of our members internationally to address the challenges of climate change and sustainability.’ Lee Burgett, ASHRAE’s president, says, ‘The use of HVAC&R technologies is an essential element of contemporary life, yet HVAC&R systems contribute to greenhouse-gas releases through energy-related effects and through the effect of refrigerant losses. ‘Together, ASHRAE and CIBSE are emphasising improved energy efficiency in HVAC&R technologies and responsible refrigerant use.