Fully refrigerated cold chains: why can they make such a difference?
Fully refrigerated cold chains undoubtedly provide one of the best solutions to two of the most pressing problems of our time: how to tackle food waste and greenhouse gas emissions.
A recent study carried out by the University of Michigan, supported by the National Science Foundation and Carrier Global Corporation, has shown that almost half of the 13 billion tonnes of food wasted each day could be saved if this technology was introduced.
The impact of food waste
The fact that around one third of the food produced globally is thrown away is an alarming statistic, with far-reaching consequences for the approximately 800 million people facing constant food shortages.
The University of Michigan’s research has however demonstrated that fully refrigerated cold chains could reduce global greenhouse gas emissions associated with food waste by 41%.
This is extremely significant, considering that these food storage processes are essential to preserve the freshness of food throughout its journey from production to consumer.
Nevertheless, many of the current supply chain processes are inconsistent and of variable quality, frequently involving below standard infrastructure, especially in developing countries. In those regions, the lack of adequate refrigeration can lead to:
- significant product losses;
- a worsening food crisis and a negative environmental impact.
Optimisating the cold chain
The study used a calculation tool to estimate food losses and analyse the impact of better cold chain access on seven different food types in seven different regions. The results showed that, by improving refrigeration at every phase of the supply chain, it is possible to drastically reduce both  food waste and associated emissions.
For example, although representing less than 10% of global food waste in terms of weight, meat is responsible for over 50% of greenhouse gas emissions linked to food deterioration. By optimising refrigeration these emissions could be reduced by a further 43 percent, reflecting the efficiency of fully refrigerated cold chains.
The research findings also highlight a significant disparity between infrastructures in developed and developing countries. Developed countries are equipped with advanced technologies and well consolidated structures, while many areas of sub-Saharan Africa and South and Southeast Asia are hampered by scarce resources. Better implementation of refrigerated cold chains could have a significant impact and transform such areas.
The important role of the fully refrigerated cold chain in future
As is clear from the research results outlined above, fully refrigerated cold chains are not only essential in the storage of food products, they also play a crucial role in protecting perishable goods, such as life-saving medicines.
In an increasingly interconnected world with a growing population, the need for efficient, sustainable food supply systems has become a priority. Carrier Global Corporation recognises the crucial role of cold chains in the fight against food loss and waste and has developed innovative solutions to improve the efficiency and sustainability of those processes.
This is definitely a step towards food sustainability, but the widespread adoption of fully refrigerated cold chains will require a coordinated effort by world governments and the food industry.
It is now their task, together with international organisations, to work together to realise that vision, ensuring that everyone, wherever they are in the world, has acccess to safe and nutritious food, while at the same time, preserving our planet for future generations.
Translated by Joanne Beckwith
