Islamabad, Sep 26: A recent United Nations report highlights an alarming increase in the demand for cooling systems in developing countries, which could exacerbate climate change if sustainable solutions are not prioritized.
By 2050, air conditioning, refrigeration, and refrigerated transport demand is projected to increase seven-fold in Africa and four-fold in Asia, according to the UN Environment Agency (UNEP) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
IFC head Makhtar Diop emphasized that developing nations are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of rising temperatures and urgently require effective cooling solutions.
The surge in demand is driven by factors such as rising temperatures, population growth, and urbanization in many developing regions.
Currently, the cooling sector accounts for about 20% of global electricity consumption, and demand is on track to triple by 2050, with developing countries expected to represent 80% of this demand.
UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen stressed the need for a balance between addressing cooling demands and mitigating climate change, stating, “Keeping cool is an essential need for both healthy communities and a healthy environment.”
To avoid worsening the climate crisis, UNEP and IFC are advocating for sustainable, energy-efficient cooling solutions that can halve emissions and lower electricity costs.
They are urging private sector investment in this market, which is expected to grow to $600 billion annually by 2050 in developing countries.
The report also highlights the importance of “passive” solutions, such as using reflective materials and planting trees for shade, as part of a comprehensive approach to meet cooling needs without further heating the planet.
