The challenges facing the adoption of natural refrigerants

The transition towards more sustainable cooling systems represents one of the major challenges of global decarbonisaton.  Despite technological advances and growing environmental awareness, the adoption of natural refrigerants continues to proceed slowly.

This is, of course, a paradox, as despite the existence of a range of well-established, efficient and low environmental impact solutions, the market continues to prefer options with signficantly higher global warming potential (GWP).

An expanding market still reliant on synthetic gases

Considering the key role played by air conditioning, (a sector in rapid expansion due to rising global temperatures and increasing urbanisation) in this context, its impact cannot be overlooked.

Natural refrigerants such as propane (R290), ammonia (R717) and carbon dioxide (R744) offer considerable advantages in terms of sustainability.  Their GWP is extremely low or close to zero, unlike synthetic gases such as R32, which is still widely used.

Nevertheless, their largescale introduction is meeting resistance due to technical, financial and legislative issues.  As a consequence, the potential for emissions reduction remains largely un-exploited, while the number of systems installed continues to grow rapidly.

The HVAC sector (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) is experiencing unprecedented growth, with millions of new air conditioning systems being fitted each year, especially in developing countries.

In this scenario, refrigerant choice becomes a key factor in determining overall emission levels.  At present, a large proportion of split units still use the above mentioned R32 (a gas with a GWP of 675).  Although this is an improvement compared to the use of other synthetic refrigerants with an even greater climate impact, the environmental performance levels of this gas are still significantly lower than its natural counterparts.

Currently available data clearly indicates the magnitude of this problem.  It is estimated that around 190 million split units run on R32, with an average load of 1kg per system.  This translates into over 60 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent stored in so-called ‘refrigerant banks’.

Experts believe that gradual replacement with natural alternatives could prevent the emission of around 61 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent each year, which would ensure a significant contribution to fighting climate change.

Despite this evidence, the spread of natural refrigerants remains limited.  Consumers tend to choose consolidated solutions, often for reasons associated with initial costs, availability of technical skills and risk perception.

The transition therefore requires systemic change which is able to involve the entire supply chain, from producers and installers to designers and regulatory bodies, including end users.

The main barriers to wider adoption

There are numerous, interconnected issues affecting the adoption of natural refrigerants.  One of the main ones regards security.  Some of these substances, such as propane, are flammable, while ammonia is toxic at higher concentrations.  Although appropriate technical standards and design solutions to manage these risks already exist, negative perceptions can hinder acceptance by the market and local authorities.

Another significant hurdle is constituted by the initial costs.  While systems based on less polluting solutions offer genuine savings in the long term, thanks to greater energy efficiency, the initial investment required can turn out to be higher.  This aspect is especially critical in price-sensitive markets, where purchasing decisions are strongly influenced by immediate costs.

A lack of technical skills represents another limitation.  The installation and maintenance of systems which run on natural refrigerants requires specific training.  In many countries, especially developing nations, this training is not yet widely available.  As a result, operators tend to prefer technologies they are familiar with.

Finally, the legislative framework plays a crucial role.  In some areas of the world, regulations are not yet up-to-date or are too restrictive.  In contrast, targeted policies and economic incentives can significantly accelerate the transition, as reflected by international best practice.

Innovation, policies and solutions to accelerate change

Despite the difficulties, there are several promising signs indicating a possible change of direction.  The number of manufacturers investing in natural refrigerant based technologies is increasing, as is the number of solutions available on a commercial scale.  Technological innovation is contributing towards better security, reducing costs and increasing system efficiency.

Public policies are a fundamental tool in supporting this transition.  Innovative finance models, tax incenties and tighter regulation of high GWP gases can create the conditions for a wider uptake of these solutions.  At the same time, training and certification programmes for technicians are essential to bridge the skills gap.

Another key element is collaboration between stakeholders.  The transition towards sustainable cooling requires an integrated approach involving industry, government agencies and the academic world.  The sharing of best practice and success stories can contribute to reducing uncertainty and encouraging large scale adoption.

The role of the Green Cooling Summit 2026

The Green Cooling Summit provides one of the main international platforms devoted to the subject of sustainable cooling.  Founded with the aim of promoting low climate impact technologies, the event brings together experts, government agencies and sector operators each year to discuss the challenges and opportunities of the transition.  Organised by German organisations such as UBA and GIZ Proklima on behalf of the relevant Federal ministries, the summit has gradually established itself as a global reference point.

The 2026 event, held on 19th and 20th May in an online format, incorporates morning and afternoon sessions, in order to encourage international participation.  The main focus is on the delay in the adoption of natural refrigerants, despite growing demand for air conditioning systems.  The programme will include detailed analysis of existing barriers, together with the presentation of already tested, scalable solutions.  The three main topic areas are:

• operational best practice;
• emerging technological trends;
• question and answer sessions with sector experts.

Special attention is dedicated to financial and regulatory aspects, with the presentation of policy tools and innovative finance models.  The aim is to create a solid dialogue between the various members of the supply chain and accelerate an already technologically possible transformation.  The summit therefore aims not only to spread awareness, but also to act as a catalyst for change.