The statement was signed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) at ASHRAE’s 2006 Winter Meeting.
“The use of HVAC&R technologies is an essential element of contemporary life,” says Lee Burgett, ASHRAE president. “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 emphasizing improved energy efficiency in HVAC&R technology, low or zero emission energy technologies and responsible refrigerant use.”
“This joint statement makes very clear how our two bodies are determined to use the expertise of our members internationally to address the challenges of climate change and sustainability,” says Donald Leeper, CIBSE president.
CIBSE and ASHRAE provide building design, operation, and energy efficiency standards used globally. Since energy production often contributes greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere, these standards potentially reduce emissions. Energy-related impacts are addressed by reducing the equipment system and building energy consumption, and by modifying user behavior, thereby reducing emissions including CO2.
ASHRAE and CIBSE are implementing the following:
“ASHRAE and CIBSE reaffirm their joint commitment to developing and adopting energy efficient practices and resources, and call upon their members, governments, and colleagues in the buildings and related industries to likewise respond,” Burgett says.
