The climate crisis is a global phenomenon which is manifesting itself as drastic, devastating changes across the entire planet. Among its main causes, one of the most significant is the massive concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which is setting off a chain of events resulting in dire consequences for the environment, biodiversity and human health.

The semiconductor crisis which has caused concern over the last two or three years, now seems to be over. At least, that is what data from the commercial areas most damaged by the shortage suggests, especially in markets connected with the IT supply chain, consumer goods and the automotive sector.

As the cost of investing in low carbon emission HVAC systems remains high, a need has emerged for governments to provide subsidies for domestic heat pumps. This issue is explored in a report released by the European Heat Pump Association (EHPA), examining the various kinds of financial support available to families in different member states.

Early last February, the European Commission presented what is known as the Industrial Plan for the Net-Zero Age. This project is incorporated into the wider Green Deal, the main purpose of which is to help companies reach zero net emissions and climate neutrality.

Smart (or intelligent) cities are urban conurbations that use technology to offer residents a better quality of life and make public services more efficient, while reducing the environmental impact. This process is made possible via the use of high tech systems including sensors, monitoring devices, the Internet of Things (IoT), wireless connectivity and data analysis.

The digital transition is proceeding more slowly in professional firms than in other sectors, where competitiveness is the driving force behind the pursuit of innovation. Although in such a context the digital transition may appear to of limited significance, it is important to note that the data gathered indicates a proactive trend, spurred on by a desire to move with the times.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently put forward a proposal to reduce HFCs by the year 2024. According to the document presented by that organisation, the main objective is to lower US production and consumption of fluorinated gases by 40% compared to previous levels.

The topic of sustainable refrigeration was one of the most hotly debated issues at the annual QualEnergia forum, held in Rome last November. The two-day event hosted professionals, leading cold sector companies, Italian and European NGOs and several representatives of political groups involved in promoting a decarbonised economy.

In light of the fact that propane (R290) heat pumps have already displayed significant performance efficiency as well as remarkable environmentally friendly features, Germany has recently launched a project designed to offer citizens customised solutions in order to substitute traditional heating systems (such as gas or oil) in blocks of flats with this new equipment.

During a recent session of the European Parliament, a proposal was made to introduce a total ban on HFC and HFO refrigerants. The request was put forward by the Vice-Chair of the EU Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI), Bas Eickhout.

Recent research designed to forecast the progression of the refrigerants market, has shown that that market is expected to reach a value of 8.4 billion dollars with a CAGR of 6.2% by the year 2027.